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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We are off to a fantastic finish this week as we wrap up the third quarter! Our Mustangs have been working incredibly hard, and we are so proud of their continuous progress and growth throughout this quarter. There is truly much to celebrate!

We want to express our sincere appreciation for your ongoing support and partnership in your child's education. Your involvement makes a significant difference in their success.

Volunteer Opportunity in the Library!

We are currently seeking volunteers to assist in our school library with shelving books. If you have a passion for reading and would like to contribute to our students' learning environment, we would love to hear from you!  If you are interested in volunteering, please contact our school librarian, Ms. Pappano, at [email protected].

McNair CARES

We are excited to share that last week we had several classrooms receive their first certificate for the McNair CARES schoolwide positive behavior incentive program.

As shared in last week's newsletter, the purpose of the McNair CARES incentive program is to continue to develop a positive school culture where we increase the consistent demonstration of positive behaviors for ALL students, across all school settings. Be sure to continue to ask your Mustang how many McNair CARES tickets their class has earned so far along with how their class earned their tickets. It has been so much fun celebrating our Mustangs together! 

Thank you for your continued dedication to our school community and for your continuous partnership and support in your child's education. We look forward to a strong finish to the third quarter this Friday.  Together, all things are possible.

Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs! 

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here!

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

 

Mustang News Topics

Click on the links below to navigate to sections of this newsletter. 

• Mark Your Calendars!
• Attendance
• McNair Updates: Need to Know
• PTA Updates
• FCPS News
• Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair!

Mark Your Calendars! Save the Date

📌March 28: Last day of the Third Quarter

📌March 31: Holiday- Eid; No School For Students

📌April 1: Teacher Workday; No School For Students

📌April 8: Spring Picture Day!

📌April 9: Purple Up Day! (In honor of our military children and families)

📌April 14-18: Spring Break; No School For Students

📌April 24: Earth Day Family Engagement Event; 4:30-6:00pm at McNair ES

📌April 28: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

📌May 16-22: McNair Elementary School's Spring Scholastic Book Fair

📌May 19: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be at 12:30pm

📌May 19: Kindergarten Orientation from 2:00-3:00pm at McNair ES

📌May 21: Family Night at the Book Fair & Storytime with the Principal; 4:00-6:00pm at the McNair ES Library

📌May 21: PTA Parent Meeting; 6:30-8:00pm (Please join us!)

📌May 26: Holiday- Memorial Day; All schools and offices closed

📌June 9: Field Day at McNair Elementary School

📌June 10: End of Year Luau Day at McNair

📌June 11: McNair ES Awards Ceremony (More information coming soon!)

📌June 11: 2 Hour Early Release; Last Day of School for Students

 

**Please reference the School Year FCPS Calendar  when making appointments or scheduling family trips.  Attendance counts and everyday matters!**

Arrival and Dismissal 

Doors open for arrival at 8:35 a.m. The school day begins at 8:45 a.m.
Dismissal begins at 3:30 p.m.

Attendance 🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

This year, spring break is April 14-18. We will be eager to welcome your children back to school on Monday, April 21. Student attendance is very important. Every day, our teachers will be teaching, and students will be learning. Studies have shown that just two absences per month can cause students to fall behind. Let’s finish this school year strong. Visit FCPS’ website for attendance resources.

McNair Updates: Need to Know 🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!   Time to get your child registered! 

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. 

Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

 

 

 

We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

On Monday, March 24, parents and guardians of McNair Elementary School received an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.

Topics covered in the survey include:

• Instructional leadership
• School climate
• Management (human resources and organizational)
•  Communication and community relations
• Culturally responsive and equitable leadership
• Professionalism

The questionnaire will be open March 24 – April 4 and will be collected online. Keep an eye out for an email from [email protected] and take a few minutes to complete it.

Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) March Newsletter

In March we celebrate Women’s History Month. How can your child use the Decisions and Outcomes strategy to invent something new like Mary Anderson? Check out the latest edition of the McNair AAP Community Newsletter published by Mrs. Janofsky and Mrs. Burg. In this edition you will find ways you can support the Decisions and Outcomes strategy, at home Portrait of a Graduate skills connections, as well as an AAP spring screening notification.

In the spring, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year. Parents or guardians can initiate the screening process by submitting the AAP School-Based Services (Subject Specific and Part-Time) Referral Form to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by April 15, annually. Check out our newsletter for a link to the referral form.

March AAP Community Newsletter

 

Yearbook Orders

It's already that time of year again where we are beginning to collect yearbook orders!  Parents/guardians, please click on the following link to order your child a yearbook today: https://strawbridge.fotomerchanthv.com/search/YB30171

 

Earth Day Family Engagement Event Thursday, April 24

McNair Elementary School invites you and your child to work with us to celebrate Earth Day by beautifying the outside of our school.  You and your child will have the opportunity to participate in activities to make our school beautiful and learn about caring for the earth.  Mark your calendars for Thursday, April 24 from 4:30-6:00pm.  We hope to see you there!  All children must be accompanied by an adult.

**Please note, if you are willing to make any donations including but not limited to soil, plants, gardening tools, etc., please contact Connie Lehman at [email protected]. We appreciate your support!**

 

FCPS CARES

Is there a staff member at McNair Elementary School that you would like to recognize?

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition.  

       

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• Submissions are entered through StaffConnect, the HR portal for all employee actions. Select “I want to submit a(n)” and scroll to “FCPS Cares Submission.” The report will use the word “incident,” which is a generic term for all submissions, regardless of type.
• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word before copying and pasting it in the StaffConnect text box.
• For questions, please email [email protected].

 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

 

Snacks for Staff

We would love the help of our McNair families to stock the McNair and McNair Upper 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. 

   

We will have an updated link coming soon! Your support is greatly appreciated as we are very low on donations at the moment. 

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between 8 a.m. and 4p.m.. 

Volunteer at McNair

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

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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]. 

 

 

  McNair Chess Tournament

Our next McNair Chess Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, March 29th, 2025.

Location: McNair Elementary School 2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171

MAXIMUM ENTRIES 120

Pre-registration closes on Thursday, March 27, 2025.

The early pre-registration fee through Tuesday, March 25, 2025 is $40.00 per chess player.

The late pre-registration fee for Wednesday, March 26, 2025 and Thursday, March 27, 2025 is $45.00.

On-site registrations will close at 8:30 am on Saturday, March 29. The on-site registration fee is $50.00. 

No Email/Phone Registrations allowed.

NOTE: If you need a bye for the later rounds - please notify us prior to the beginning of round 2.

Doors open at 8:00 am for on-site registrations. On-site registration closes at 8:30 am. The first round starts at 9:00 am.

Three (3) sections:

• K-3 G/30,d5 (5 rounds)
• K-5 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)
• K-8 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)

NOTE: REMINDER: Cancellations are subject to a $5.00 / player handling fee.

NOTE: Participants should use the back / cafeteria doors - the front doors will not be open.

Participants must have a USCF ID - to register: https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/member.php

Pre-registrations (updated periodically): Pre-registrations

NOTE: Our chess tournaments are subject to Fairfax County Public School policies. In case of inclement weather - please check www.fcps.edu.

Upcoming Tournaments:

Tentative - McNair Scholastic Chess - April 26, 2025

Please address questions or concerns to [email protected]

Link to Register: https://tinyurl.com/rh5stzw2

  Our PTA is on Facebook

Please like and follow to get the latest updates.

  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.

Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter. Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.

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

 

Community Resources

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

 

FCPS News FCPS News

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

• Student Achievements
• Art in Our Schools Month
• Celebrating Students Setting Positive Examples

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

 

Quarter End, Eid al-Fitr, and Student Holiday

Friday, March 28, is the last day of the third quarter. It is a full day of school for students. 

All FCPS schools and offices are closed on Monday, March 31, for Eid al-Fitr. Tuesday, April 1, is a student holiday and teacher workday. See the complete school year calendar.

.

National Women’s History Month

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

Help and Resources for Infants, Toddlers, and Their Families

Are you concerned about your infant, toddler, or preschool-aged child's development? Resources are available if your child exhibits difficulties in one or more of the following areas:

• communication
• fine and/or gross motor skills
• self-help skills
• problem solving 
• attention skills

Learn more about typical developmental milestones.

The Infant & Toddler Connection of Virginia (ITC) is the state’s early intervention system for infants and toddlers (0-36 months) with disabilities and their families. ITC provides evaluations and services for children who have developmental delays or medical conditions that may affect development. Parents are encouraged to contact ITC at 703-246-7121 to share their concerns.

Early Childhood Child Find is the process of identifying children with potential special education needs between the ages of 20 months and 5 years (children must be two by September 30). 

FCPS Early Childhood Identification and Services (ECID&S) offers a free referral process to identify potential developmental delays or disabilities. Special education services are provided for all children who are found eligible through the referral process. Parents are encouraged to contact 571-423-4121 with questions or to make a referral.

✨ Helping students meet the criteria for kindergarten readiness is Goal 1 of the Strategic Plan.

FCPS 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. 

 

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22. The Board of Supervisors will then conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

 

Become Unskippable: Share the Facts

Talking with teens about the facts of fentanyl is a conversation you can’t skip. Learning about fentanyl gives teens a better understanding of the risks and effects of the drug. 

Share these important facts with your child:

• Even half a fentanyl-laced pill can be fatal. Just a few salt-sized grains of fentanyl are enough to cause an overdose.
• More than half of local street pills contain a deadly dose of fentanyl. As of 2023, seven in
10 counterfeit pills in the U.S. contain enough fentanyl to cause a fatal overdose.
• Fentanyl is usually taken accidentally. Many people have no idea they’ve taken it until they overdose because you can’t see, smell, or taste it in pills and powders.
• Overdose can happen in an instant. In as little as four minutes, the lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage and even death.

Learn more about how to have conversations with your child in a way that will make you Become Unskippable.

📑 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.

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair!

Please stay in touch with us by

• Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview.
• Tech Tools for Families (SIS ParentVUE, TalkingPoints, Schoology, Lightspeed)
• Technology Support for Families.
• FCPS Assessment Information.
• FCPS Academics Information.
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information.
• Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares.

  👍❤️ 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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected]
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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We are having another fantastic week at McNair Elementary, filled with learning and growth!

McNair CARES

We are excited to share that last week we rolled out our McNair CARES schoolwide positive behavior incentive program.

The purpose of the McNair CARES incentive program is to continue to develop a positive school culture where we increase the consistent demonstration of positive behaviors for ALL students, across all school settings. Be sure to ask your Mustang how many McNair CARES tickets their class has earned so far along with how their class earned their tickets. Stay tuned for more information in next week's newsletter around our McNair CARES schoolwide positive behavior incentive program.  

Safety First!

As the warm weather greets us, please take a moment to review our McNair Arrival and Dismissal Procedures . This ensures a smooth and safe arrival and dismissal process for everyone.

Join Us for Upcoming Events:

• PTA Meeting: We look forward to seeing you at our PTA meeting this Wednesday at 6:30 PM here at McNair Elementary School.
• Kindergarten Registration and Popsicles with the Principal: Mark your calendars! Join Principal Watson and our School Registrar, Ms. Hosseini on Wednesday, March19th from 4:00-5:30pm to register your future Mustang for Kindergarten! 

We appreciate your continuous partnership and support in your child's education. Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs! 

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

 

Principal Elizabeth Watson

Assistant Principal Brandy O'Bryant   

Please contact us with any questions!

 

Lifelong Learners Grow Here!

Mustang News Topics

Click on the links below to navigate to sections of this newsletter. 

• Mark Your Calendars!
• Attendance
• McNair Updates: Need to Know
• PTA Updates
• FCPS News
• Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair!

Mark Your Calendars! Save the Date

📌March 19: Kindergarten Registration after Office Hours and Popsicle with the Principal, 4:00-5:30pm at McNair ES

📌March 19: Annual PTA Meeting at 6:30pm at McNair ES

📌March 31: Holiday- Eid; No School For Students

📌April 1: Teacher Workday; No School For Students

📌April 8: Spring Picture Day!

📌April 9: Purple Up Day! (In honor of our military children and families)

📌April 14-18: Spring Break; No School For Students

📌April 24: Family Engagement Earth Day Event; 4:30-6:00pm at McNair ES

📌April 28: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

📌May 16-22: McNair Elementary School's Spring Scholastic Book Fair

📌May 19: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be at 12:30pm

📌May 19: Kindergarten Orientation from 2:00-3:00pm at McNair ES

📌May 21: Family Night at the Book Fair & Storytime with the Principal; 4:00-6:00pm at the McNair ES Library

📌May 21: PTA Parent Meeting; 6:30-8:00pm (Please join us!)

📌May 26: Holiday- Memorial Day; All schools and offices closed

📌June 9: Field Day at McNair Elementary School

📌June 10: End of Year Luau Day at McNair

📌June 11: McNair ES Awards Ceremony (More information coming soon!)

📌June 11: 2 Hour Early Release; Last Day of School for Students

 

**Please reference the School Year FCPS Calendar  when making appointments or scheduling family trips.  Attendance counts and everyday matters!**

Arrival and Dismissal 

Doors open for arrival at 8:35 a.m. The school day begins at 8:45 a.m.
Dismissal begins at 3:30 p.m.

Attendance   🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

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

When scheduling trips or family events, try to use weekends and school holidays, and refer to the FCPS Calendar when planning. Every day of learning is a day toward success. Keep in mind that absences add up quickly. Students who are 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 to the school. If you are unsure how to report an absence, please call the main office at 703-793-2800..

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

McNair Updates: Need to Know   🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!   Register your Mustang for Kindergarten and enjoy a popsicle with the Principal!

The sooner you register your Mustang for Kindergarten, the better to ensure a highly qualified teacher and smaller class sizes.  Please join us on Wednesday, March 19th from 4:00-5:30pm to get your child registered and for your rising Kindergartner to enjoy a popsicle with the Principal! We cannot wait to see you there!

**Please note, families are encouraged to register their child as soon as possible for kindergarten. This date accommodates families after typical office hours to register their child.**

  Time to get your child registered! 

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. 

Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

 

 

 

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) March Newsletter

In March we celebrate Women’s History Month. How can your child use the Decisions and Outcomes strategy to invent something new like Mary Anderson? Check out the latest edition of the McNair AAP Community Newsletter published by Mrs. Janofsky and Mrs. Burg. In this edition you will find ways you can support the Decisions and Outcomes strategy, at home Portrait of a Graduate skills connections, as well as an AAP spring screening notification.

In the spring, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year. Parents or guardians can initiate the screening process by submitting the AAP School-Based Services (Subject Specific and Part-Time) Referral Form to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by April 15, annually. Check out our newsletter for a link to the referral form.

March AAP Community Newsletter

 

Yearbook Orders

It's already that time of year again where we are beginning to collect yearbook orders!  Parents/guardians, please click on the following link to order your child a yearbook today: https://strawbridge.fotomerchanthv.com/search/YB30171

 

We Want Your Feedback! Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Questionnaire

On Monday, March 24, parents and guardians of McNair Elementary School will receive an email with a link to the FCPS Principal Evaluation Parent/Guardian Feedback Form. This questionnaire is part of the Performance Evaluation Program and provides an opportunity to share anonymous feedback about our school’s leadership and environment.
Topics covered in the survey include:

• Instructional leadership
• School climate
• Management (human resources and organizational)
•  Communication and community relations
• Culturally responsive and equitable leadership
• Professionalism

The questionnaire will be open March 24 – April 4 and will be collected online. Keep an eye out for an email from [email protected] and take a few minutes to complete it.

Your input is valuable and helps shape the future of our school. Thank you for your time and feedback!

 

FCPS CARES

Is there a staff member at McNair Elementary School that you would like to recognize?

The FCPS CARES Program allows parents, staff, and community members to recognize FCPS employees who go above and beyond to help others and show they care about their students, colleagues, and the community. We invite you to submit a story below to acknowledge the great work of an FCPS employee or group of employees who should receive FCPS CARES recognition.  

       

Please take note of the following before submitting an FCPS CARES:

• Submissions are entered through StaffConnect, the HR portal for all employee actions. Select “I want to submit a(n)” and scroll to “FCPS Cares Submission.” The report will use the word “incident,” which is a generic term for all submissions, regardless of type.
• A notification email, with the submission text included, will be sent to the recipient(s) and copied to the recipient's supervisor(s). 
• All submissions will be posted to our FCPS CARES webpage and shared via other FCPS news outlets.
• Submissions containing personal or sensitive information may be edited to protect individuals' privacy.
• Feel free to compose your submission using a text editor such as Microsoft Word before copying and pasting it in the StaffConnect text box.
• For questions, please email [email protected].

 

Coates Elementary School Boundary Study Community Meetings - Update

Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is conducting a division-wide review of school boundaries, with the first round of community meetings that were held between mid-November and mid-December 2024, followed by virtual sessions in January and February 2025.

However, the Coates Elementary School boundary study is a separate effort to address capacity challenges at the school. On February 20, 2025, the Fairfax County School Board received recommendations for the study’s scope. A final decision on the scope of the Boundary Study is expected at the March 13, 2025, School Board meeting. Schools included in the recommended boundary scope:

Herndon Pyramid

• Aldrin ES 
• Armstrong ES
• Clearview ES
• Dranesville ES
• Herndon ES
• Hutchison ES

 South Lakes Pyramid

• Dogwood ES
• Fox Mill ES
• Hunters Woods ES
• Lake Anne ES
• Terraset ES

Chantilly Pyramid

• Lees Corner ES
• Oak Hill ES

 Westfield

• Coates ES 

• Floris ES 
• McNair ES 
• McNair Upper ES

AAP Level IV Center Boundaries

• Clearview ES
• Forest Edge ES
• Hunters Woods ES
• McNair Upper ES
• Oak Hill ES
• Sunrise Valley ES

Once the scope of the boundary study is approved by the School Board, FCPS staff will develop possible program and/or boundary change scenarios within the approved scope. These scenarios will be shared with the community, and opportunities for public input will be available through in-person and virtual meetings on: 

• Wednesday, April 2, 2025, from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Virtual via Zoom – Register here. For the virtual meeting, registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
• Monday, April 7, 2025 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. In person - Coates Elementary School - Cafeteria 

Each meeting will offer the same presentation and opportunity for community feedback, with language interpretation available. Families and community members can review the proposed changes and share their input.

Stay informed by visiting the Coates Elementary School Boundary Study, where you can also sign up for the mailing list to receive updates.

For any questions, please fill out this form. Your engagement in this process is important!

 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

 

Student Fasting Meal Kits Through March 28, 2025

The Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) has issued a new, first-time waiver allowing students fasting during the school day from February 28 to March 28, 2025, to request take-home breakfast and lunch meal kits. The Office of Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) will provide meal kits reflecting the school menu. Meals will be kept cold and must be heated at home. Students may claim one breakfast and one lunch kit per day. If a student purchases breakfast or lunch at school, they cannot pick up a kit that day. Meal kits must be picked up by students at the end of the school day—adults cannot collect them. Parents or guardians must submit a weekly request form via the FCPS FNS website by the deadlines:

• March 17, 2025, for the week of March 24, 2025

Forms must be submitted on time to receive meal kits for the following week.

 

Snacks for Staff

We would love the help of our McNair families to stock the McNair and McNair Upper 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. 

   

We will have an updated link coming soon! Your support is greatly appreciated as we are very low on donations at the moment. 

Donations can be dropped off to the designated school's main office each school day between 8 a.m. and 4p.m.. 

Volunteer at McNair

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

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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]. 

 

 

  March McNair PTA General Membership Meeting & OOTM Awards Ceremony

The McNair PTA is gearing up for an important General meeting scheduled for Wednesday, March 19th, 2025 at McNair ES.

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

The McNair PTA is happy to announce that we will hand out certificates to all the students who participated in OOTM after the PTA general membership meeting.

 

McNair Chess Tournament

Our next McNair Chess Tournament is scheduled for Saturday, March 29th, 2025.

Location: McNair Elementary School 2499 Thomas Jefferson Drive Herndon, VA 20171

MAXIMUM ENTRIES 120

Pre-registration closes on Thursday, March 27, 2025.

The early pre-registration fee through Tuesday, March 25, 2025 is $40.00 per chess player.

The late pre-registration fee for Wednesday, March 26, 2025 and Thursday, March 27, 2025 is $45.00.

On-site registrations will close at 8:30 am on Saturday, March 29. The on-site registration fee is $50.00. 

No Email/Phone Registrations allowed.

NOTE: If you need a bye for the later rounds - please notify us prior to the beginning of round 2.

Doors open at 8:00 am for on-site registrations. On-site registration closes at 8:30 am. The first round starts at 9:00 am.

Three (3) sections:

• K-3 G/30,d5 (5 rounds)
• K-5 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)
• K-8 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)

NOTE: REMINDER: Cancellations are subject to a $5.00 / player handling fee.

NOTE: Participants should use the back / cafeteria doors - the front doors will not be open.

Participants must have a USCF ID - to register: https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/member.php

Pre-registrations (updated periodically): Pre-registrations

NOTE: Our chess tournaments are subject to Fairfax County Public School policies. In case of inclement weather - please check www.fcps.edu.

Upcoming Tournaments:

Tentative - McNair Scholastic Chess - April 26, 2025

Please address questions or concerns to [email protected]

Link to Register: https://tinyurl.com/rh5stzw2

  Our PTA is on Facebook

Please like and follow to get the latest updates.

  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.

Please use the annual sign up form for the TIE program from Harris Teeter. Note: You need to re-register every year for this program.

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

 

Community Resources

Buy Nothing Facebook Group Herndon

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

 

FCPS News   FCPS News

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

• Second Annual Food Show
• Cameras on School Bus Stop Arms
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Process Explained

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

 

Quarter End, Eid al-Fitr, and Student Holiday

Friday, March 28, is the last day of the third quarter. It is a full day of school for students. 

All FCPS schools and offices are closed on Monday, March 31, for Eid al-Fitr. Tuesday, April 1, is a student holiday and teacher workday. See the complete school year calendar.

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FCPS 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. 

 

FCPS Budget — Our Students Deserve the Best

More than $240 million of FCPS’ Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Advertised Budget is dedicated to increasing compensation for our teachers and staff to stay competitive and reduce turnover. Currently, FCPS ranks fifth out of eight neighboring districts in regards to starting salary for teachers with a master’s degree. 

Our families expect — and our students deserve — the best teachers.

Next Steps in the Budget Process

The next steps in the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process include the School Board presenting the budget to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, April 22, and then the Board of Supervisors will conduct public hearings Tuesday, April 22, through Thursday, April 24. Community members can submit testimony or sign up to speak. 

Visit the county government website to view the Fairfax County FY 2026 Advertised Budget. The community is also invited to complete an online survey to provide feedback on the county’s FY 2026 Advertised Budget. 

Learn more about the FCPS FY 2026 Budget process.

 

Reminder to Sign Up Weekly for Student Fasting Meal Kits

Students who are fasting during the school day between now and March 28 can take school meal kits home at the end of the day. Families must fill out a separate request form for each week and for each student in order to receive school meal kits. To receive meal kits for the week of March 24, please fill out this form by March 17. 

Please remind your child to pick up their meals each day at our school’s designated location. Visit the Food and Nutrition Services webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

 

🛑 Cameras Installed on School Bus Stop Arms

Cameras have been installed on the stop arms of 50 FCPS school buses. These cameras will be used to identify drivers who pass stopped school buses while children are entering and exiting the bus (called a “stop arm violation”). 

Warnings for drivers will begin on Wednesday, April 9. After a 30-day warning period, citations will begin to be issued on Monday, May 12.

According to Virginia law, drivers must stop for stopped school buses with flashing red lights on and their stop signs extended. Motorists should stop when approaching from any direction (unless there is a barrier or median separating their lane from where the bus is stopped). They should remain stopped until everyone is clear and the bus is moving. 

We appreciate our law enforcement partners for working with us to improve road safety and reduce accidents. Read more information about the stop arm cameras and all of the ways that we work with our county partners to keep students safe on their way to and from school.

 

📍 The Comprehensive School Boundary Review Process Explained

Want to learn more about the ongoing Comprehensive School Boundary Review process? Watch this video for explanations of terms such as attendance zones, attendance islands, split feeders, and other factors that affect school boundaries. The video will also be available in other languages soon.

 Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage for more information and sign up for our School Boundary Review newsletter.

 

📑 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.

Be Sure To Stay In Touch, McNair!

Please stay in touch with us by

• Reviewing parent communications in FCPS Overview.
• Tech Tools for Families (SIS ParentVUE, TalkingPoints, Schoology, Lightspeed)
• Technology Support for Families.
• FCPS Assessment Information.
• FCPS Academics Information.
• Mental Health Resources and Emergency Services Information.
• Recognizing a FCPS Employee at FCPS Cares.

  👍❤️ 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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

Attendance: 703.793.4747 or [email protected]
Web | X | Facebook | Instagram

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

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Our Mustangs have been shining this week, their curiosity lighting up classrooms and our school community through diverse learning and engaging Read Across America activities! The excitement of reading has been infectious. Don't miss the chance to hear about your child's fantastic week.  Be sure to ask your Mustang about their reading adventures!

As we look ahead, please mark your calendars for the following:

• March 17: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal at 12:30pm. (We want to ensure all families are supported; student supervision will be available for those who need it, and SACC will operate as usual for enrolled students.)
• March 19: Kindergarten Registration and Popsicles with the Principal at McNair ES from 4:00-5:30pm. Please spread the word!
• March 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair ES at 6:30pm. Your voice matters! Please join us as we work together to support our wonderful school.

Kindergarten Registration is now open! Please share this with families of soon-to-be kindergarteners so they can register promptly. Registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. Your help is appreciated.

Your continuous partnership and support in your child's education is invaluable. Please reach out if there is any way that we can assist your child at this time.

 

Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs! 

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🐻 It’s Kindergarten Registration Time!   Register your Mustang for Kindergarten and enjoy a popsicle with the Principal!

The sooner you register your Mustang for Kindergarten, the better to ensure a highly qualified teacher and smaller class sizes.  Please join us on Wednesday, March 19th from 4:00-5:30pm to get your child registered and for your rising Kindergartner to enjoy a popsicle with the Principal! We cannot wait to see you there!

**Please note, families are encouraged to register their child as soon as possible for kindergarten. This date accommodates families after typical office hours to register their child.**

 

Time to get your child registered! 

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. 

Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

 

McNair Mustangs Celebrate Read Across America Week! Let's see your spirit, Mustangs!

Read Across America is March 3rd-7th and to celebrate we will have spirit days and activities around reading! You can participate at home by reading together as a family some old favorites or try something new!  Happy Reading, Mustang community! **Note: Due to class picture day on Thursday, pajama day will now be on Friday, March 7th.**

.

 

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

This year, spring break is April 14-18. We will be eager to welcome your children back to school on Monday, April 21. Student attendance is very important. Every day, our teachers will be teaching, and students will be learning. Studies have shown that just two absences per month can cause students to fall behind. Let’s finish this school year strong. Visit FCPS’ website for attendance resources.

 

 

Class Picture Day Is This Week! Get ready Mustangs! Class photos are this Thursday, March 6th.

Class picture day is almost here! To order class pictures, parents/guardians can visit the Strawbridge website at www.strawbridge.net, click on "Order Pictures and Yearbooks," and enter this code into the box: FM442059

Need support? Please contact our main office at 703-793-4800. 

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Yearbook Orders!

 

It's already that time of year again where we are beginning to collect yearbook orders!  Parents/guardians, please click on the following link to order your child a yearbook today: https://strawbridge.fotomerchanthv.com/search/YB30171

 

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter AAP March Newsletter

In March we celebrate Women’s History Month. How can your child use the Decisions and Outcomes strategy to invent something new like Mary Anderson? Check out the latest edition of the McNair AAP Community Newsletter published by Mrs. Janofsky and Mrs. Burg. In this edition you will find ways you can support the Decisions and Outcomes strategy, at home Portrait of a Graduate skills connections, as well as an AAP spring screening notification.

In the spring, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year. Parents or guardians can initiate the screening process by submitting the AAP School-Based Services (Subject Specific and Part-Time) Referral Form to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by April 15, annually. Check out our newsletter for a link to the referral form.

March AAP Community Newsletter

 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

2025 Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging! (an Extension of the Special Education Conference)

Families, educators, and community members are invited to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit: Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging. Fairfax County Public Schools will be hosting the free, in-person event in collaboration with valued community partners. The summit will be held Saturday, March 15, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School.

Childcare will be provided. Special education staff will be available to care for children with high support needs. You may sign up for childcare during the registration process. 

Learn more about this event and register today! Contact [email protected] for more information.

This event will feature: 

• Opening Session: Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak — best-selling authors, motivational speakers, and advocates for inclusion — will share practical tools and evidence-based strategies to empower and assist all families, with a special emphasis on parents of students with individual education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Breakout Sessions: Learn more about special education and global topics that benefit all families.
• Student Showcase: FCPS students will share their efforts in fostering inclusivity through posters, essays, videos, songs, art, and other mediums.
• Exhibitor Hall: Discover valuable resources and services in the community to support families.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other families, staff, and community partners.

National School Social Work Week

March 3-7 is National School Social Work Week. Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

Our AMAZING school social worker is Dena Neverdon! She supports students and families at both McNair Elementary School as well as McNair Upper Elementary School.  Her impact on our school community is immeasurable, and we want to express our deepest gratitude for her incredible dedication to the well-being and success of all of our students.

We are hopeful that students and families this week will take a moment to share their appreciation with Ms. Neverdon by writing her a letter or drawing her a picture.  Your kind words and encouragement will undoubtedly mean a lot!!

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. We will have an updated link coming soon!  Your support is greatly appreciated as we are very low on donations at the moment. 

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 

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

✨ 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. 

 

Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal, Mrs. Watson at [email protected] regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

 

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

FCPS News

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

• Summer Camps and Learning Opportunities
• Supporting Academic Growth 
• Preparing for Tough Conversations With Your Child

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

March 3-7: McNair ES Celebrates Read Across America Week

March 6: Class Picture Day at McNair ES

March 8: FCPS Job Fair at Lake Braddock Secondary School

March 17: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

March 19: Kindergarten Registration after Office Hours and Popsicle with the Principal, 4:00-5:30pm at McNair ES

March 19: Annual PTA Meeting at 6:30pm at McNair ES

March 31: Holiday- Eid; No School For Students

April 1: Teacher Workday; No School For Students

April 10: Family Engagement Earth Day Event; 4:30-6:00pm at McNair ES

April 14-18: Spring Break; No School For Students

April 28: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

May 19: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

May 19: Kindergarten Orientation from 2:00-3:00pm at McNair ES

May 26: Holiday- Memorial Day; All schools and offices closed

June 11: 2 Hour Early Release; Last Day of School for Students

 

2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Another great week of learning and fun is in the books at McNair!  As we look forward to the upcoming week, we will be celebrating our LOVE for LITERACY in honor of Read Across America Week!  We encourage all students and staff to show their spirit and participate in the various activities we have planned to commemorate this special week. More details can be found in this newsletter.  We cannot wait to see your spirit, Mustangs!

As we look ahead, please mark your calendars for the following:

• March 3-7: Read Across America Week! Let's ignite a love for reading and show off that incredible Mustang spirit! We can't wait to see all the creative ways our students celebrate the magic of literacy.
• March 3-7: National School Social Worker Week! We're so grateful for Ms. Neverdon and the incredible support she provides to our students and families. Her dedication makes a real difference.

Looking further ahead:

• March 17: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal at 12:30pm. (We want to ensure all families are supported; student supervision will be available for those who need it, and SACC will operate as usual for enrolled students.)
• March 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair ES at 6:30pm. Your voice matters! Please join us as we work together to support our wonderful school.

In addition, please note that Kindergarten Registration is here! Please help us by spreading the word to your family, friends, and neighbors with incoming kindergarteners so they can register as soon as possible. We appreciate your assistance!

Your unwavering support makes a real difference in our students' lives. Together, we're unlocking their potential and empowering them to achieve their dreams. We hope you have a fantastic week ahead. 

We are looking forward to seeing you tomorrow, Mustangs!

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🐻 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. 

Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

McNair Mustangs Celebrate Read Across America Week! Let's see your spirit, Mustangs!

Read Across America is March 3rd-7th and to celebrate we will have spirit days and activities around reading! You can participate at home by reading together as a family some old favorites or try something new!  Happy Reading, Mustang community!

.

 

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Parents/guardians have a huge influence on students when it comes to attendance.  Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Good attendance will help students do well in high school, college, and at work.

School Year Routines

• Maintain regular bed time and morning routines to help your child develop a habit of on-time attendance.  
• Talk to your child about why going to school everyday is important unless they are sick.
• Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick.
• If your child seems reluctant to go to school, find out why and talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make him feel comfortable and excited about learning. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• When possible, avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
• Reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor if you are experiencing tough times such as unstable housing, transportation or health problems.  

Yearbook Orders!

 

It's already that time of year again where we are beginning to collect yearbook orders!  Parents/guardians, please click on the following link to order your child a yearbook today: https://strawbridge.fotomerchanthv.com/search/YB30171

 

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter AAP March Newsletter

In March we celebrate Women’s History Month. How can your child use the Decisions and Outcomes strategy to invent something new like Mary Anderson? Check out the latest edition of the McNair AAP Community Newsletter published by Mrs. Janofsky and Mrs. Burg. In this edition you will find ways you can support the Decisions and Outcomes strategy, at home Portrait of a Graduate skills connections, as well as an AAP spring screening notification.

In the spring, schools review data on all students to determine services for the start of the next school year. Parents or guardians can initiate the screening process by submitting the AAP School-Based Services (Subject Specific and Part-Time) Referral Form to the Advanced Academic Resource Teacher (AART) by April 15, annually. Check out our newsletter for a link to the referral form.

March AAP Community Newsletter

 

🚀 Prepare for a Summer of Learning and Fun

Registration will be available soon for summer camps offered by Fairfax County Public Schools for all students. Career and Technical Education (CTE) camps and Institute for the Arts (IFTA) camps will be held in July at Lake Braddock Secondary School from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bus transportation will be available from select FCPS middle and high schools. Registration begins for these programs on Monday, March 10, and ends Friday, June 6.

Tech Adventure Camp (TAC) is a week-long exploratory camp designed to allow current K-5 students to explore activities in STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math), culinary arts, health, trades, and business and marketing areas. Watch this video about CTE camps.

E-IFTA is a weekly arts camp for students in grades 2-5 who love to sing, dance, act, perform, make, and create. Students take part in four daily classes related to dance, music, theater, and visual art. They work with FCPS fine arts teachers who create fun and engaging classes. 

For more information, see the Summer Learning page.

2025 Family Summit - Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging! (an Extension of the Special Education Conference)

Families, educators, and community members are invited to the 2025 FCPS Family Summit: Beyond Labels: Nurturing a Culture of Belonging. Fairfax County Public Schools will be hosting the free, in-person event in collaboration with valued community partners. The summit will be held Saturday, March 15, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. at South Lakes High School.

Childcare will be provided. Special education staff will be available to care for children with high support needs. You may sign up for childcare during the registration process. 

Learn more about this event and register today! Contact [email protected] for more information.

This event will feature: 

• Opening Session: Julie Causton and Kristie Pretti-Frontczak — best-selling authors, motivational speakers, and advocates for inclusion — will share practical tools and evidence-based strategies to empower and assist all families, with a special emphasis on parents of students with individual education programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans.
• Breakout Sessions: Learn more about special education and global topics that benefit all families.
• Student Showcase: FCPS students will share their efforts in fostering inclusivity through posters, essays, videos, songs, art, and other mediums.
• Exhibitor Hall: Discover valuable resources and services in the community to support families.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with other families, staff, and community partners.

National School Social Work Week

March 3-7 is National School Social Work Week. Social workers in FCPS help to prevent social, emotional, and behavioral factors from affecting a student's ability to perform at their best. Their primary goal is to remove barriers that prevent a student from fulfilling their academic potential. Social workers are assigned to every school and center in the school system. Most social workers serve one to two sites. Learn more about the role of social workers in FCPS.

Our AMAZING school social worker is Dena Neverdon! She supports students and families at both McNair Elementary School as well as McNair Upper Elementary School.  Her impact on our school community is immeasurable, and we want to express our deepest gratitude for her incredible dedication to the well-being and success of all of our students.

We are hopeful that students and families this week will take a moment to share their appreciation with Ms. Neverdon by writing her a letter or drawing her a picture.  Your kind words and encouragement will undoubtedly mean a lot!!

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our Classrooms

Did you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline.

 

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

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

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

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

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

 

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

 

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. We will have an updated link coming soon!  Your support is greatly appreciated as we are very low on donations at the moment. 

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 

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

✨ 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. 

 

Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal, Mrs. Watson at [email protected] regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

 

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

FCPS News

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

• Summer Camps and Learning Opportunities
• Supporting Academic Growth 
• Preparing for Tough Conversations With Your Child

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

February 28: Ramadan Begins at Sundown

March 3-7: McNair ES Celebrates Read Across America Week

March 8: FCPS Job Fair at Lake Braddock Secondary School

March 17: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

March 19: Annual PTA Meeting at 6:30pm at McNair ES

March 31: Holiday- Eid; No School For Students

April 1: Teacher Workday; No School For Students

April 10: Family Engagement Earth Day Event; 4:30-6:00pm at McNair ES

April 14-18: Spring Break; No School For Students

April 28: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

May 19: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

May 26: Holiday- Memorial Day; All schools and offices closed

June 11: 2 Hour Early Release; Last Day of School for Students

 

2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Our students are having a fantastic start to the week with learning and growing together. We continue to be so proud of their efforts and achievements. Thank you for your continued dedication with ensuring your student attends school on time every day. Attendance matters. Your partnership is essential to your child's education and growth.

Furthermore, we're so excited to connect with you all at our upcoming events, and we truly hope you'll be able to join us!

• February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES at 6:30pm
• February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night, 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School
• February 22: McNair PTA's Chess Tournament. Please register here!
• February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day; Dismissal will be 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.) 

In addition, please note that Kindergarten Registration is here! Please help us by spreading the word to your family, friends, and neighbors with incoming kindergarteners so they can register as soon as possible. We appreciate your assistance!

Thank you for your ongoing partnership and support. Together, we can ensure that every child receives a high quality education and has the opportunity to thrive. Together, all things are possible. Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs!

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Parents/guardians have a huge influence on students when it comes to attendance.  Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Good attendance will help students do well in high school, college, and at work.

School Year Routines

• Maintain regular bed time and morning routines to help your child develop a habit of on-time attendance.  
• Talk to your child about why going to school everyday is important unless they are sick.
• Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick.
• If your child seems reluctant to go to school, find out why and talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make him feel comfortable and excited about learning. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• When possible, avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
• Reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor if you are experiencing tough times such as unstable housing, transportation or health problems.  

🐻 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. 

Fairfax County public schools typically conduct kindergarten registration events, including orientation, between January and April. Eligible children can also be registered throughout the summer, but registering your child early helps us prepare and ensure we have the teachers and resources needed on the first day of school. 

Families should prepare for registration by gathering documents and completing forms on the FCPS kindergarten registration webpage. FCPS offers support and resources for all families to help with registration and the transition to kindergarten. For support in other languages, visit the kindergarten registration webpage.

✨ A strong start is Goal 1 of the 2023-30 Strategic Plan.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

Yearbook Orders!

 

It's already that time of year again where we are beginning to collect yearbook orders!  Parents/guardians, please click on the following link to order your child a yearbook today: https://strawbridge.fotomerchanthv.com/search/YB30171

 

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter AAP February Newsletter

Check out the latest edition of the AAP February Newsletter. from Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg. Happy reading!

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

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

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

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

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

Breaking Down the Budget: Investing in Our Classrooms

Did you know that more than 85% of FCPS’ budget stays in our classrooms? Currently, 92.5% of FCPS staff are school-based, more than neighboring school districts. We are in the middle of FCPS’ annual budget process, which includes opportunities for you to give feedback. Learn more about the proposed FCPS FY 2026 Proposed Budget and see the budget timeline.

 

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

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

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

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

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

 

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

 

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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.

 

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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]

.

February PTA General Membership Meeting & Awards Ceremony

This is a friendly reminder that we have a General PTA meeting and a Reflections Awards Ceremony coming up on Wednesday, February 19th at 6:30 PM. This month's meeting will be held at McNair Upper ES. Hope to see you there!

We’re excited to announce that we’ll be hosting an Award Ceremony for the Reflections after a brief meeting.

  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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

✨ 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. 

 

🏗️ FCPS’ Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

The Fairfax County School Board approved the annual update to FCPS’ FY 2026-30 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) at their regular board meeting last week. A CIP is a working budget document that shows the timing and costs of improvement to school buildings, such as renovations, additions, and new schools. Learn more about planned improvements. Fairfax County Public Schools’ updated plans for new school construction, capacity enhancements, and renovations are outlined in the CIP. Projects include constructing two new elementary schools; renovations at 18 elementary schools, two middle schools, and two high schools; and relocation of modular buildings.

 

Black History Month

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

Black History Month Celebration

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School. 

The event begins with a light reception, followed by a formal program, “From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future.” The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

VSBA School Board Appreciation Month

Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.

Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal, Mrs. Watson at [email protected] regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

 

Student Fasting Meal Kits for February 28 - March 28

Thanks to a new program from the Virginia Department of Education, students who are fasting during the school day between February 28 and March 28 can now take school meal kits home at the end of the day.Families will need to fill out a weekly Fasting Meals Request Form for their child or children to receive school meal kits. A separate form must be filled out for each week and each student.To receive meal kits for Friday, February 28, and the week of March 3, please submit the first request form by Monday, February 24. Visit the FNS webpage for more information, including weekly request forms and deadlines.

FCPS News

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

• Flu Prevention
• Students Spread Joy
• Investing in our Classrooms

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

February 19: FCPS Black History Month Celebration at Woodson HS, 5:30pm

February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES, 6:30pm

February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon)

February 22: PTA's Chess Tournament at McNair ES 

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

February 28: Ramadan Begins at Sundown

 

2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We are having another wonderful week of learning and growing together! Today marked a special milestone – our 100th Day of School! Our Mustangs had a blast participating in our 100 Days of Learning Challenges, and it was truly heartwarming to see their creativity shine as they explored different ways to represent the number 100. We encourage you to ask your child about their favorite challenge – we're sure they'll love sharing their memorable experiences with you!

Looking ahead, our second graders have an exciting day planned for tomorrow: their very own innovative marketplace! They've been busy creating goods to "sell" to staff and fellow students. We're all looking forward to witnessing their entrepreneurial spirit in action. A huge thank you to our amazing teachers for creating such incredible, real-world learning experiences for our students. These opportunities are truly invaluable.

We're also so excited to connect with you all at our upcoming events, and we truly hope you'll be able to join us!

• February 10-14: McNair Kindness Spirit Week (More information below!)
• February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES at 6:30pm
• February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night, 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School
• February 22: McNair PTA's Chess Tournament. Please register here!

Kindergarten Registration is here! Please help us spread the word to your family, friends, and neighbors with incoming kindergarteners so they can register as soon as possible. We appreciate your assistance!

Thank you for your continued partnership. We hope you all have a wonderful rest of the week, Mustangs!

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Did You Know?

• Starting in preschool and kindergarten, too many absences can cause children to fall behind in school.
• Missing 10%, or about 2 days each month over the course of a school year, can make it harder to learn to read.
• Students can still fall behind if they miss just one or two days every few weeks.
• Being late to school may lead to poor attendance.
• Absences and tardiness can affect the whole classroom if the teacher has to slow down learning to help children catch up.

Attending school regularly helps children feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Eventually good attendance will be a skill that will help them succeed in high school, college, and beyond.

Please visit https://www.fcps.edu/attendance for more information about the importance of student attendance. 

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

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

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

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation at McNair Elementary School. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Afkham Hosseini, our school registrar at at [email protected] or 703-793-4800.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

This Week Is McNair Kindness Week

Let's see your spirit, Mustangs! This is such a special week to celebrate together!

.

 

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter AAP February Newsletter

Check out from the latest edition of the AAP February Newsletter. from Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg.

Make Sure Your Children Are Up-to-Date on Immunizations

Please make sure your child has all of their necessary immunizations. Remember, all students are required to be immunized against certain diseases to attend school in Virginia. This is an important part of keeping children healthy!

Starting Monday, May 19, students who have not provided proof of immunization may not be allowed to attend school. You can check your child’s immunization status and submit updated immunization information by accessing SIS ParentVUE. 

Please check with your healthcare provider to make sure your child is up to date on required immunizations for the 2024-25 school year. If your child needs an immunization, make an appointment with your healthcare provider, visit the Fairfax County Health Department website for a list of child immunization clinics, or view other Immunization Resources. Be wise and immunize!

🤧 Protect Yourself and Your Community From the Flu

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

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

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

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

🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

FCPS Proposed Budget Progress

The Fairfax County School Board discussed the FCPS Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Proposed Budget at their work session on February 4. They discussed details regarding student enrollment and investments in students requiring additional support, market comparison data for surrounding school divisions, and an update on progress toward achieving the Baldrige Award for Performance Excellence. Baldrige is a framework used to assess and improve organizational performance across various sectors, including education. 

The School Board also held a public hearing on February 4, where they invited the community to share their feedback on the proposed budget.

 

On Tuesday, February 18, the Fairfax County executive will present the county’s Advertised Budget, and the School Board will hold a work session on FCPS’ FY 2026 Proposed Budget. View the Budget Development Calendar.

• Breaking Down the BudgetMore than 85% of the budget is dedicated to instruction and reflects the needs of our community’s young people in response to the changing world around us. Budget priorities include providing competitive compensation for all employees, including a 7% salary increase for all staff.  

Our families want their children in high-quality schools with the best teachers who provide rigorous academic experiences. FCPS must provide competitive compensation to attract and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students. 

The proposed 7% salary increase would likely move FCPS to the highest starting salary for teachers with a master's degree among our neighboring counties and greatly improve our recruitment efforts amidst an ongoing teacher shortage. Visit the Budget webpage for more information. 

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration

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

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

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

Get more details on the DLI Program webpage.

 

🧲 Learn About Science, Technology, and Arts Magnet Schools

Three FCPS elementary magnet schools — Hunters Woods, Bailey’s Primary, and Bailey’s Upper — provide enhanced learning programs in science, technology, and performing arts. 

Registration for the 2025-26 elementary magnet lottery is open Tuesday, March 4, through Friday, April 4. Learn more about the programs on the Elementary Magnet Schools page and information on the magnet lottery on our Registration page.

 

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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.

 

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

✨ 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. 

 

Students Invited to Share Their Voices at the 2025 Family Summit

The 2025 FCPS Family Summit will take place on Saturday, March 15, at South Lakes High School. Visit the Family Summit webpage for more information. 

At the event, FCPS students will be invited to showcase projects and advocacy efforts around inclusivity in schools. This is a great resume-building opportunity, and students can earn service hours as well. Students may share their work in a share-fair environment using posters, essays, videos, songs, or art. They will interact with attendees through conversations about their work, ideas, and efforts to foster inclusivity in school communities. 

Students must use this Google Form to participate by Monday, February 17. A list of possible projects is also on the form. More information will be provided after the student’s submission is received. Please contact Manuel Gomez Portillo with any questions. 

✨ Centering student voice is part of FCPS’ Strategic Plan Goal 2: Safe, Supported, Included, and Empowered. 

Black History Month

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

Black History Month Celebration

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School. 

The event begins with a light reception, followed by a formal program, “From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future.” The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

VSBA School Board Appreciation Month

Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.

Presidents Day (Holiday)

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

Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal, Mrs. Watson at [email protected] regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

FCPS News

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

• Proposed Budget Progress
• Apply for Dual Immersion and Magnet Lotteries
• Black History Month Event

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

February 10-14: McNair Kindness Week (Let's see your spirit, Mustangs!)

February 13: The 100th Day of School! 

February 12: School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

February 17: Presidents Day Holiday, All Schools and Offices Closed

February 19: FCPS Black History Month Celebration at Woodson HS, 5:30pm

February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES, 6:30pm

February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon)

February 22: PTA's Chess Tournament at McNair ES 

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

February 28: Ramadan Begins at Sundown

 

2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We've had an excellent start to the third quarter this week! Students and teachers have been busy learning, sharing, and reinforcing classroom expectations, all while maintaining our warm and supportive school culture. As we move into the month of February, we have a lot of celebrations coming up. We will celebrate Black History Month, Women's History Month, Kindness Week, our school counselors, our school crossing guards, and our 100th Day of School!  

Furthermore, we are looking forward to connecting with all of you at our upcoming events as we hope that you can join us! 

• February 10-14: McNair Kindness Spirit Week (More information below!)
• February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES at 6:30pm
• February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night, 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon.)

In light of recent events, we want to reassure our students and families that our commitment to supporting and educating your children remains unwavering. Our teachers and staff are dedicated to providing the best possible learning experience and celebrating every student's success. We are all deeply saddened by the recent tragedy at Reagan National Airport and our thoughts are with all of you during this time. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you or your family need any support.  We are here for you. 

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

Parents/Guardians have a huge influence on students when it comes to attendance.  Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. Good attendance will help students do well in high school, college, and at work.

During the school year...

• Maintain regular bed time and morning routines to help your child develop a habit of on-time attendance.  
• Talk to your child about why going to school everyday is important unless they are sick.
• Don’t let your child stay home unless they are truly sick.
• If your child seems reluctant to go to school, find out why and talk to teachers, school counselors, or other parents for advice on how to make him feel comfortable and excited about learning. Keep in mind complaints of a stomach ache or headache can be a sign of anxiety and not a reason to stay home.
• When possible, avoid medical appointments and extended trips when school is in session.
• Reach out to your child’s teacher or school counselor if you are experiencing tough times such as unstable housing, transportation or health problems.  

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

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

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

After the appointment at the school (the student and one guardian must be present), the student will be ready for Kindergarten Orientation at McNair Elementary School. Read more about the registration process. For additional information, please contact Afkham Hosseini, our school registrar at at [email protected] or 703-793-4800.

 

💻 Try Online Registration

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

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

National School Counseling Week

 

February 3-7 is National School Counseling Week, and highlights the tremendous impact school counselors have in helping students achieve academic success and planning for a career. School counselors work with students in a variety of different capacities, whether it is through classroom lessons, group sessions, or individual counseling. Learn more about the role of school counselors in FCPS.

Our AMAZING school counselors at McNair Elementary School are Donna Ford and Kristin Coe. Their impact on our school community is immeasurable, and we want to express our deepest gratitude for their incredible dedication to the well-being and success of all of our students.

Please take a moment to share your appreciation with them this week by having your child write them a letter or draw them a picture.  Your kind words and encouragement will undoubtedly mean a lot!!

 

Next Week Is McNair Kindness Week

Let's see your spirit, Mustangs!  Looking forward to celebrating this special week together with all of you at McNair! 

.

 

Advanced Academics Programming (AAP) Community Newsletter AAP February Newsletter

Check out from the latest edition of the AAP February Newsletter. from Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg.

.

 

🏅 Advisory Committee for Students With Disabilities Seeks Nominations for First-Class Awards

First-Class Awards are presented each year to individuals who support, design, and/or implement inclusion activities that result in positive outcomes for students. The Advisory Committee for Students with Disabilities (ACSD) is seeking nominations for the 2025 First-Class Awards. This is a great opportunity for the community to recognize and celebrate the inclusion efforts of educators, administrators, and students who demonstrate the inclusion of students with disabilities in all facets of education. 

Nominees should model excellence in their role relative to special education, have a positive impact that benefits disabled and non-disabled students alike, and be committed to creating an inclusive environment and mindset.

Nominate an administrator, staff member, student, or community partner who has made an exceptional contribution to inclusive practices in Fairfax County Public Schools. Nominations close Wednesday, February 19.

Proposed Budget Presented to School Board

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

As Dr. Reid noted in her January 24 letter to families, “The budget is fiscally responsible and invests in excellence — not just for FCPS, but for all of us in Fairfax County who want a strong community with successful young people, dedicated educators and support staff, and a thriving economy.” 

The proposed budget reflects the needs of and FCPS’ commitments to Fairfax County students, families, and community members. It focuses on competitive compensation, including a 7.0% salary increase for all staff to recruit and retain our outstanding educators, administrators, and other school-based and operational staff dedicated to the success of our students; investing in students who require additional support; and continuing multiyear initiatives such as inclusive preschool and safety and security updates.

Learn more on the Budget webpage.

Office of the Ombuds: At Your Service!

Ombuds staff engage with FCPS employees, families, and students to offer resources and 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.  

Ombuds office staff members are available to help resolve disagreements between parents/caregivers and schools. They 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.

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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.

 

📑 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.

 

Friendly Reminder: Community Boundary Review Meeting

If you have not been able to attend a Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meeting is scheduled and will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

Click the date above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Please note that each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

✨ 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. 

 

Black History Month

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

Black History Month Celebration

FCPS’ Chief Equity Office invites the community to an Inaugural Black History Month Kick-Off Celebration on Wednesday, February 19, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Carter G. Woodson High School. 

The event begins with a light reception, followed by a formal program, “From the Threads of Our Past to the Fabric of Our Future.” The program will honor the enduring contributions of Black history and culture while envisioning a future rooted in equity and excellence. It will include inspiring performances, personal stories, reflections, and opportunities to connect and celebrate. The event is open to the entire community. 

For more information, contact Nina Thomas, senior manager for Professional Learning and Cultural Responsiveness.

VSBA School Board Appreciation Month

Thank you to the Fairfax County School Board for all they do throughout the year. Want to contact your school board representatives to share your appreciation? Visit their website to find your school board member and contact them.

Presidents Day (Holiday)

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

Ramadan

Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28. This day is an evening-only observance day. There is school on these days, but certain activities that cannot be made up can not take place after school. See the complete school year calendar.

Throughout the year, as we celebrate and recognize various cultural holidays and observances, families are encouraged to contact their child’s principal, Mrs. Watson at [email protected] regarding accommodations, including but not limited to those around lunch, prayer/meditation and silent reflection spaces and times, and instruction.

FCPS News

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

• FY 2026 Proposed Budget
• Student-Driven Lunch Menus
• Inclusion Awards Nominations

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

February 3-7: National School Counseling Week

February 10-14: McNair Kindness Week (Let's see your spirit, Mustangs!)

February 12: The 100th Day of School! 

February 12: School Crossing Guard Appreciation Day

February 17: Presidents Day Holiday, All Schools and Offices Closed

February 19: FCPS Black History Month Celebration at Woodson HS, 5:30pm

February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES, 6:30pm

February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon)

February 22: PTA's Chess Tournament at McNair ES 

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

February 28: Ramadan Begins at Sundown

 

2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Can you believe we are halfway through the school year? Time is flying and we continue to celebrate all of the progress and growth that our Mustangs have made and will continue to make.  Thank you so much for your ongoing partnership.  As a friendly reminder, tomorrow is the Lunar New Year and a teacher workday. There is no school for students on Wednesday, January 29.

Furthermore, we are looking forward to connecting with all of you at our upcoming events as we hope that you can join us! 

• February 19: Annual PTA Meeting at McNair Upper ES at 6:30pm
• February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night, 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon.)

As we enter 3rd quarter at the end of this week, we are hopeful that you will continue to check-in with your child and hear about all of the wonderful learning opportunities that they are participating in while at school!  A great way to have richer conversations with your child is to check-in with them 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 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?

We are looking forward to galloping together into the 3rd Quarter with you! Have a great week, Mustangs! 

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

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 a new quarter is a great time to continue to review 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.

 

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

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

📍 Virtual Community Boundary Review Meetings

If you have not been able to attend an FCPS Community Boundary Review meeting yet, it’s not too late! The following virtual meetings will have the same format and information available as the previous in-person meetings:

• Saturday, January 25, 9:30-11 a.m. 
• Monday, January 27, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Tuesday, January 28, 6:30-8 p.m. 
• Monday, February 10, 6:30-8 p.m. 

 Click one of the dates above to register and receive your unique Zoom link. Each virtual meeting will be capped at 400 participants to help provide a meaningful experience for all. Language interpretation will be available. Learn about FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review. Sign up for the School Boundary Review newsletter for updates.

 

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey

All FCPS families and middle and high school students have received an invitation to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available through Monday, February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

 

🏗️ FCPS’ Proposed Construction Projects Offer Community-Wide Benefits

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

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

What Families Can Do to Fight Drug Misuse

FCPS is committed to raising awareness about the opioid epidemic with our educators, parents/caregivers, and students. Together, we can help ensure our students thrive.

What can families do?

• Show you disapprove of underage drinking and other drug misuse. More than 80% of young people ages 10-18 say their parents are the leading influence on their decision whether to drink. 
• Show you care about your child’s health, wellness, and success. 
• Show you are a good source of information about alcohol and other drugs. Find helpful resources on the FCPS Opioid Awareness webpage. 
• Pay attention to your child and discourage risky behaviors. 
• Build your child’s skills and strategies for avoiding drinking and drug use. Talk with your child about what they would do if faced with a decision about alcohol and drugs, such as texting a code word to a family member or practicing how they will say, “No thanks.”

Get more information on opioid awareness.

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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.

 

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

.

 

✨ 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. 

 

Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. 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:

• SOL Score Reports
• Upcoming Budget Presentation
• Science Fair Judges Needed

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

January 28: End of the 2nd Quarter of School

January 29: Lunar New Year: Teacher Workday/Student Holiday (No School For Students)

January 30: The 3rd Quarter of School Begins

February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon)

February 22: PTA's Chess Tournament at McNair ES (More information coming soon)

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

 

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs throughout the school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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

The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We hope you enjoyed the long weekend and had the opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. for his many contributions and fierce advocacy for racial justice and equality. We also hope you're staying warm and safe despite the frigid temperatures that have greeted us this week.  Safety is our top priority and we would like to send a big thank you to our dedicated custodial team for their hard work with clearing the snow and ice yesterday so that our Mustangs were able to return to school today. 

Furthermore, it has been another great week at McNair. We are so incredibly proud of our Mustangs and the remarkable progress that they are making this school year! This is a busy time of year as our teachers are hard at work collecting midyear literacy and math data.  We use this data to help us measure student growth and to identify specific supports and enrichment opportunities for students by name, strength, and need. 

As you are reviewing your calendars for the week, please see the following for a couple of friendly reminders:

• Tuesday, January 20: Boundary Meeting at Coates Elementary School, 6:30-7:30pm
• Wednesday, January 21: PTA Meeting at McNair ES, 6:30pm (You may also join us virtually. Click here to join.)
• Thursday, January 23: Coat Donations for Families in Need at McNair ES, 3:50-5:30pm

If you have any questions or if there's anything you would like to discuss, please feel free to reach out to us. Thank you for your continued partnership in your child's education. Warmest wishes for a delightful week ahead, Mustangs! 

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋‍♂️ Encouraging School Attendance In Elementary School

Regular attendance in elementary school is a strong predictor of grade-level performance. Attending school regularly helps students feel better about school—and themselves. Start building this habit in preschool so they learn right away that going to school on time, every day is important. 

The attendance video below is available in the following languages: English and Spanish.

.

 

Coat Donations Warm New Coat Event On Thursday, January 23!

We are extremely fortunate to have donations from Stohlman Subaru and KidsRFirst to be able to provide new coats to students whose families are in need.

Parents may bring their child to the McNair Elementary cafeteria between 3:50-5:30pm to pick out a new winter coat on January 23. (Students at McNair Upper will be offered this opportunity during the school day.) If you are in need of a coat for your child, but are unable to attend at this time, we can have an adult help your child pick one out at school. Please let us know your child’s name and preferred coat size.

You may email Donna Ford, School Counselor, with any questions or requests at [email protected].

🧥 Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

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

SR&R and Cell Phone Policy Survey Coming Soon

All FCPS families and middle and high school students will be receiving an email invitation on Tuesday, January 21, to participate in a survey about FCPS’ Student Rights and Responsibilities (SR&R), cell phone policy, and cell phone storage options. The survey will be available from January 21 to February 3. Please take a few moments to share your feedback and help FCPS make informed, inclusive decisions for all of our schools!

 

⛄Student and Family Resources

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

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

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

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

 

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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

In case you missed it, please see our AAP December Newsletter. **The January Edition is coming soon.**

Last month, Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlighted how PMI is an analysis tool that leads students to consider various aspects of ideas, events, or activities from their own or others’ perspective. Check out last month's edition of the AAP December Newsletter.

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates

 

Our January PTA Meeting Is this Wednesday! Come Join Us! 

PTA invites all the members & non-members the  January general PTA meeting (attend in-person or virtually)!

Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 

Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM

In Person Location: McNair ES

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

We’re excited to announce that we’ll be hosting an Award Ceremony right after a brief meeting.

  Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

  Chess Tournament

Congratulations to all of our Mustangs that participated in the McNair ES Chess Tournament on Saturday!  We are so grateful for our PTA for providing this wonderful experience for our school community.  We would also like to send an extra thank you to Georgina Chin for her efforts with making this event such a great success. 

Be sure to mark your calendars!  The next Chess Tournament is on February 22, 2025.  More information coming soon!

  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

 

Community Resources

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

 

PTA Volunteers Needed

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

• Financial Committee (3 volunteers needed!)
• Movie Night
• Bingo Night
• 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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

.

 

✨ 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. 

 

Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. 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:

• Dress Children Warmly
• Proposed Construction Projects
• Dual Language Immersion Lottery

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

January 21: Boundary Meeting at Coates ES, 6:30-7:30pm

January 22: PTA Meeting 6:30-7:30 PM at McNair ES (Please join us!)

January 23: Coat Donations for Families in Need at McNair ES, 3:50-5:30pm

January 28: End of the 2nd Quarter of School

January 29: Lunar New Year: Teacher Workday/Student Holiday (No School For Students)

January 30: The 3rd Quarter of School Begins

February 20: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon)

February 22: PTA's Chess Tournament at McNair ES (More information coming soon)

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

 

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs throughout the school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter Happy New Year, Mustangs!

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Happy New Year! As the snow greeted us last week, it has been so wonderful to welcome our Mustangs back and have our building buzzing again with so much energy! We have found joy with reconnecting with our students and our classroom communities.  As we kickoff a new year together, our commitment and mission at McNair continues to be 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. 

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.  Wishing you a wonderful week, Mustangs! 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

Thank You Custodians!

Last week, Dr. Reid communicated in her messaging around school closures and delays  that the decisions were not made lightly. While a significant and integral part of our role is educating children, our primary role is keeping them safe as they travel to school, are in attendance at school, and when they depart from school. We are grateful for our amazing custodial team that was on-site last week to ensure that the sidewalks and parking lots were safe and passable for our entire Mustang community. Please join us in extending a BIG THANK YOU to Mr. Gubatan, Ms. Mercedes, Ms. Castillo, Mr. Nguyen, and Mr. Le!  We appreciate you all so much!

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋‍♂️ Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

As we kickoff 2025, let's continue to partner together to nurture a rock-solid attendance habit. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. 

A big thank you to:

• 🌟 Students who show up every day and the parents/caregivers supporting them.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming environment for learning.
• 👨‍💼 Administrators who provide a safe and engaging place to grow.
• 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers who lend a helping hand to all our learners.

If you or your child need support, please reach out to our school social worker or family liaison. If your child is not feeling well, please refer to the When Should I Keep My Child Home? webpage for guidance. 

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

📵 Phones Down, Engagement Up: FCPS Cell Phone Policy

Keeping cell phones off during the school day helps students focus and learn. It also boosts positive social behavior. Review FCPS’ cell phone expectations by grade level with your child and help keep our classrooms free of distractions! If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

Coat Donations Warm New Coat Event On Thursday, January 23!

We are extremely fortunate to have donations from Stohlman Subaru and KidsRFirst to be able to provide new coats to students whose families are in need.

Parents may bring their child to the McNair Elementary cafeteria between 3:50-5:30pm to pick out a new winter coat on January 23. (Students at McNair Upper will be offered this opportunity during the school day.) If you are in need of a coat for your child, but are unable to attend at this time, we can have an adult help your child pick one out at school. Please let us know your child’s name and preferred coat size.

You may email Donna Ford, School Counselor, with any questions or requests at [email protected].

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

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

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

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

  Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

 

⛄Student and Family Resources

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

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

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

Gradebook Available Until End-of-Quarter

Based on community feedback from the first quarter closure, FCPS revisited the scheduled dates for closing the Gradebook and Report Card modules in the SIS ParentVUE and StudentVUE apps. 

Moving forward, the app will close in alignment with the actual quarter-end dates. This change will allow students and families to view their assignments and grades until the last day of the quarter. Gradebook will be closed for the second quarter from Tuesday, January 28, 4 p.m. to Tuesday, February 4, 6 a.m.

Access Your Child’s Grades Through SIS ParentVueLearn how your ParentVUE account allows you to easily access grade reports and other helpful information about your child.

Friendly Reminder: FCPS Trust Policy Information For Families

As we navigate the months ahead, many families are experiencing anxiety and uncertainty due to the recent Presidential Election and ongoing discussions surrounding immigration policies. 

In 2022, the School Board adopted the Trust Policy, reaffirming its commitment to providing a safe and welcoming environment for all students and their families. This policy aligns FCPS with Fairfax County’s Public Trust and Confidentiality Policy ensuring that students and families can access school division benefits and services without fear that their information will be disclosed to federal immigration officials.

ST Math Family Night

MIND Research is hosting family math week January 13 - January 17, 2025. During that time, students are encouraged to log onto the FCPS Family Math website to engage in math activities with their families at home that include stories with mathematical concepts connected to a variety of different math games from around the world. All activities are available in English and Spanish. 

To learn more about Family Math Nights, check out this video. We hope that all schools will help spread the word and work collaboratively to help us reach our goal of logging on for three million minutes as an FCPS community. 

Family Resource Center Webinars and FCPS Family Academy 🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings. 

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

 

Typing Practice

Please see a message below from our School Based Technology Teacher, Ms. Perri.

Let's get typing! We'd love for you to join us in encouraging your child to practice their typing skills at home. Here are some fun websites to help:

Typing.com provides free typing lessons, games, and tests, catering to different skill levels.

Dance Mat Typing is a fun and interactive program for younger kids, using a game-like approach to teach typing.

Typing Club offers free, structured lessons, games, and progress tracking. It's great for beginners and intermediate learners.

 

Tips for Parents:

Start Early: The earlier kids start learning touch-typing, the better. Even short practice sessions can make a big difference.

Encourage Good Posture: Ensure your child sits up straight, keeps their feet flat on the floor, and their wrists relaxed.

Proper Finger Placement: Guide them to place their fingers on the home row keys (ASDF JKL;).

Practice Regularly: Consistent practice is key. Aim for short, frequent practice sessions rather than long, infrequent ones.

Positive Reinforcement: Praise their efforts and celebrate their achievements.

Use Typing in Everyday Activities: Encourage them to type emails, write stories, or play typing games.

 

Please see below for additional resources: 

• ABCYA
• Dance Mat Typing
• Doorway Online - Single Handed Typing
• Doorway Text Type
• Talking Typer Online
• Typing Club (free version)
• Typing Master Online Typing Test

https://www.fcps.edu/academics/curriculum/special-education/assistive-technology-services/inclusive-and-assistive

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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

In case you missed it, please see our AAP December Newsletter. **The January Edition is coming soon.**

Last month, Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlighted how PMI is an analysis tool that leads students to consider various aspects of ideas, events, or activities from their own or others’ perspective. Check out last month's edition of the AAP December Newsletter.

📑 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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates

 

Our January PTA Meeting Is this Wednesday! Come Join Us! 

PTA invites all the members & non-members the  January general PTA meeting (attend in-person or virtually)!

Date: Wednesday, January 22, 2025 

Time: 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM

In Person Location: McNair ES

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

We’re excited to announce that we’ll be hosting an Award Ceremony right after a brief meeting.

  Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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]

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  Our PTA Is Now on Facebook!

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

  Chess Tournament

Congratulations to all of our Mustangs that participated in the McNair ES Chess Tournament on Saturday!  We are so grateful for our PTA for providing this wonderful experience for our school community.  We would also like to send an extra thank you to Georgina Chin for her efforts with making this event such a great success. 

Be sure to mark your calendars!  The next Chess Tournament is on February 22, 2025.  More information coming soon!

  Congratulations to all of the Participants of PTA Reflections!

We are pleased to announce that we had another successful year with many submissions across the categories and divisions. The students did an amazing job with their art and interpretation skills!!

Our sincere thanks to the distinguished judges for reviewing the work of our young talents! Our judges this year were:

• Ms. Coe - Art Teacher
• Ms. Scott - Music Teacher
• Ms. Rose - Music Teacher
• Ms. Luea - AAP Teacher

Link for the winners names:   https://mcnairespta.givebacks.com/w/reflections

  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

 

Community Resources

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

 

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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

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✨ 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. 

 

National Mentoring Month

Imagine a world where young people feel empowered, encouraged, and understood. Mentors can make that world a reality by helping young people find and follow their passions, excel in school, and thrive wherever they are. Learn more about Mentoring Month.

Research has shown that young people with at least one trusted mentor are less likely to skip school, less likely to use illegal drugs or drink alcohol, and more prepared to enter college or the workforce. Yet one in three children lack a mentor.

All it takes is one person to serve as a trusted adult to help change a young person’s path in life. Mentors provide attention, support, and enrichment, and help connect their mentees to resources that may help them on their journey in life.

The FCPS MentorWorks program matches mentors with students in schools near where they live or work. They meet for at least 30 minutes a week. Learn more about how to become a mentor for an FCPS student. Contact Martha Macdonald, mentoring specialist, for additional information at [email protected]. 

Orthodox Epiphany

FCPS has designated Orthodox Epiphany as a religious and cultural observance day. There is school on these days, however specific events that cannot be made up will not be held on these observance days. See the complete school year calendar.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day Holiday

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

Quarter End, Lunar New Year

Lunar New Year falls at quarter end on Wednesday, January 29. The day will be a teacher work day and there will be no school for students. 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:

• National Merit Commended Scholars
• Celebrating the Best of 2024 in FCPS
• Cell Phones Off, Learning On

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

January 13-17: ST Math Family Nights: FCPS Family Math Website

January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday & Inauguration Day (Schools Closed)

January 22: PTA Meeting 6:30-7:30 PM at McNair ES (Please join us!)

January 23: Coat Donations for Families in Need at McNair ES, 3:50-5:30pm

January 28: End of the 2nd Quarter of School

January 29: Lunar New Year: Teacher Workday/Student Holiday (No School For Students)

January 30: The 3rd Quarter of School Begins

February 6: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon)

February 22: PTA's Chess Tournament at McNair ES (More information coming soon)

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

 

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

.

 

Thank you for your partnership as we gallop together in supporting our Mustangs throughout the school year! #BloomingTogether #McNairCARES

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

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

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

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

Happy Holidays, Mustangs! We are looking forward to welcoming you back to school on January 6, 2025!

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

Happy Holidays! Thank you to all of our Mustangs, staff members, families, and our community for their amazing support this year.  We are honored and humbled to serve such a wonderful school community.  In addition, we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to our McNair PTA and our dedicated volunteers for their invaluable support throughout our 10 Days of Winter Cheer that was for our wonderful staff. We are particularly grateful for the generous donations received and commend the PTA for organizing the Sweet Shoppe for employees.

Furthermore, it warmed our hearts on Friday morning to have a school-wide Winter Sing-Along celebrating all of the holidays/traditions that occur over the winter months with our students and staff.  Our music teacher, Ms. Rose did an exceptional job with planning for this magical and memorable event for all of our Mustangs!  

We would like to wish each of you a safe, healthy, and joyous winter break with family and friends. Wishing you an abundance of hope and happiness this holiday season and into the New Year!

Looking forward to seeing you on January 6, 2025, Mustangs!

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

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 head into 2025, let's work together to nurture a rock-solid attendance habit. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. 

A big thank you to:

• 🌟 Students who show up every day and the parents/caregivers supporting them.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming environment for learning.
• 👨‍💼 Administrators who provide a safe and engaging place to grow.
• 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers who lend a helping hand to all our learners.

If you or your child need support, please reach out to our school social worker or family liaison. If your child is not feeling well, please refer to the When Should I Keep My Child Home? webpage for guidance. 

There will be no school from Monday, December 23 to Monday, January 6, 2024, for winter break. Classes will resume on Monday, January 6. 

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

 

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

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

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

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

  Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

 

🗺️ Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration Hour of Code at McNair ES

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

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

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

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

⛄Student and Family Resources

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

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

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

ST Math Family Night

MIND Research is hosting family math week January 13 - January 17, 2025. During that time, students are encouraged to log onto the FCPS Family Math website to engage in math activities with their families at home that include stories with mathematical concepts connected to a variety of different math games from around the world. All activities are available in English and Spanish. 

To learn more about Family Math Nights, check out this video. We hope that all schools will help spread the word and work collaboratively to help us reach our goal of logging on for three million minutes as an FCPS community. 

Family Resource Center Webinars and FCPS Family Academy 🖥️ Free Webinars and Events for Families

In January, the Family Resource Center (FRC) will host webinars for families on:

• Overcoming School Refusal and Resistance
• Virtual Meeting for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
• FCPS Math Week
• Supporting Your Child’s Executive Functioning Skills
• Depression in Teens
• Understanding Trauma in Your Child/Comprendiedo el Trauma en su Hijo (presented in Spanish)

Sign up for the FRC newsletter or visit their webinar webpage.

Upcoming Family Academy Events

You are an important part of your child's education! The FCPS Family Academy compiles classes, webinars, workshops, and programs offered by FCPS to help you support your child's needs and learning at home. Browse Family Academy offerings. 

📣 Sign Up and Speak Out: Fairfax County’s Pre-2025 Session Public Hearing

The Fairfax County delegation to the Virginia General Assembly will hold a public hearing regarding the upcoming 2025 session on Saturday, January 4, at 9 a.m., in the Board Auditorium at the Fairfax County Government Center. 

As Fairfax County residents, you may sign up in advance to speak at the hearing and let the delegation know what matters most to you. To participate, register online using this form or contact the Department of Clerk Services at 703-324-3151 (TTY 711) by noon on Thursday, January 2. Find additional guidelines for speaking at the public forum on the Fairfax County Government website. 

📍 Comprehensive Boundary Review Update

The Superintendent’s Boundary Review Advisory Committee held its second meeting on December 16 at Gatehouse Administration Center. View key takeaways from that meeting and access the meeting agenda, slides, and other materials that committee members received.  If you did not get a chance to attend an in-person Community Boundary Review Meeting, please consider participating in one of the following virtual meetings:

• Friday, January 10, 2025, 6-7:30 p.m. 

• Thursday, January 16, 2025, 1-2:30 p.m. 

• Saturday, January 25, 2025, 9:30-11 a.m. 

• Monday, January 27, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

• Monday, February 10, 2025, 6:30-8 p.m. 

. 

Language interpretation will be available. 

All virtual meetings will follow the same format as the in-person meetings that were recently held, and the same information will be shared. Please stay tuned for details on how to register. Visit FCPS’ Comprehensive Boundary Review webpage to learn more. Sign up for FCPS’ School Boundary Review newsletter as well.

 

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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 December Newsletter

This month, Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlight how PMI is an analysis tool that leads students to consider various aspects of ideas, events, or activities from their own or others’ perspective. Check out the latest edition of the AAP December Newsletter.

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.

 

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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

  CONGRATULATIONS!!

Congratulations to McNair Upper ES participants on their exceptional performance at the Virginia Science Olympiad (Division A)!

They garnered 76 medals across 38 events & 3 teams, achieving the highest number of wins among all participating schools.

  Chess Tournament

 

Pre-registration closes on Thursday, January 9, 2025.  The early pre-registration fee through Tuesday, January 7, 2025 is $40.00 per chess player. The late pre-registration fee for Wednesday, January 8, 2028 and Thursday, January 9, 2025 is $45.00. On-site registrations will close at 8:30 am on Saturday, January 11. The on-site registration fee is $50.00. 

Just a couple of reminders...

-No Email/Phone Registrations allowed.

-If you need a buy for the later rounds - please notify the PTA prior to the beginning of round 2.

-Doors open at 8:00 am for on-site registrations. On-site registration closes at 8:30 am. The first round starts at 9:00 am.

-There are three (3) sections:

* K-3 G/30,d5 (5 rounds)

* K-5 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)

*K-8 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)

-Participants must have a USCF ID - to register: https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/member.php

-Pre-registrations (updated periodically)

-Cancellations are subject to a $5.00 per player handling fee.

-Participants should use the back/cafeteria doors - the front doors will not be open.

-Our chess tournaments are subject to Fairfax County Public School policies. -

-In case of inclement weather - please check www.fcps.edu.

Registration Link for the Chess Tournament:

https://tinyurl.com/3b7w4z4s

  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

 

Community Resources

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

 

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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

.

 

✨ 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. 

 

Special Education Resources For Families

Fairfax County Public Schools has the following resources available to help assist families of students with special needs. 

• The Office of Special Education Procedural Support helps staff, families, and students with the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 

• The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free webinars, consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Sign up for the FRC newsletter. Contact the FRC at [email protected] or call 703-204-2941.

• Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Contact the Ombuds Office by submitting a question, calling 571-423-4014, or emailing [email protected]. 

Additionally, the Virginia Department of Education has updated the Virginia Family's Guide to Special Education. This state guide was developed to help those involved in special education including families, teachers, school administrators, advocates, and  students.

Christmas🎄

 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.

Chanukah

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

FCPS News

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

• Dual Language Immersion Lottery Registration
• Be Among the First to Hear About Closings/Delays
• Fall 2024 Sports Champions

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

December 23-January 3: Winter Break (No School For Students. The school building and office will be closed during this timeframe.)

December 25: Christmas Day

December 25: Chanukah Begins at Sundown

January 1: Happy New Year, Mustangs!

January 6: School Reopens at 8:35am

January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday (Schools Closed)

January 15: PTA Meeting 6:30-7:30 PM at McNair Upper ES

February 6: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

 

 

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

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The Mustang Weekly Newsletter

Greetings McNair Students and Families,

We had such a special week at McNair Elementary School!  Our mustangs were so excited to welcome our Superintendent, Dr. Michelle Reid to our building.  We were so excited to show her the amazing work that our talented staff does each and everyday in order to help our mustangs reach for the stars and thrive to meet their fullest potential. 

In addition, our 10 Days of Winter Cheer Spirit Days have officially begun! We are hopeful that all of our Mustangs will continue to participate throughout next week, too!  Please reach out to your child's teacher if you have any questions about our spirit days.  In addition, on Friday, December 20th, all of our Mustangs will participate in a school-wide McNair Winter Sing-Along Student Assembly.  During this special assembly, our students will have the opportunity to sing together songs that will honor all of our winter holidays and traditions.  We are grateful for our music teacher, Ms. Rose, for leading this wonderful event for all of our Mustangs at McNair!   

Also, December 9th and running through Friday, December 20th is our "10 Days of Winter Holiday Cheer at McNair ES!" We encourage you to help our McNair PTA celebrate our hard working and dedicated staff by making a donation. Here is the sign-up link: Please ensure to sign-up to support! Donations are welcome.

 

Below are just a couple of friendly reminders, so please mark your calendars: 

• 10 Days of Winter Cheer: Ensure to sign-up to support our staff! 
• Winter Sing-Along Student Assembly: Friday, December 20th

Wishing you all a joyous weekend.  Thank you so much for your continuous partnership and support!

 

All the best,

Mrs. Watson and Mrs. O'Bryant

Lifelong Learners Grow Here! 

 

Please contact us with any questions!

Principal: Elizabeth Watson, [email protected]

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

🗓️Attendance Matters 🙋‍♂️ Attend Today, Achieve Tomorrow!

We often notice more empty seats in our classrooms as winter break approaches. This year, let's work together to nurture a rock-solid attendance habit. Every hour of every school day is a unique opportunity for students to learn, connect, and grow. 

A big thank you to:

• 🌟 Students who show up every day and the parents/caregivers supporting them.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers who create a welcoming environment for learning.
• 👨‍💼 Administrators who provide a safe and engaging place to grow.
• 👏 Bus drivers, support staff, and volunteers who lend a helping hand to all our learners.

If you or your child need support, please reach out to our school social worker or family liaison. If your child is not feeling well, please refer to the When Should I Keep My Child Home? webpage for guidance. 

There will be no school from Monday, December 23 to Monday, January 6, 2024, for winter break. Classes will resume on Monday, January 6. 

Visit FCPS’ website for more attendance resources.

 

Congratulations to our Outstanding Employee Award Recipients at McNair ES!

Congratulations to our McNair Elementary School's Outstanding Employee Award Recipients.  Our staff members below will be submitted for the next round in the awards process! Thank you for the nominations! 

• Outstanding Teacher: Rachel Haymond (ECCB Special Education Teacher)
• Outstanding New Teacher: Joanna Grimes (First Grade Teacher)
• Outstanding Professional Employee: Kaitlin Burg (Advanced Academics Resource Teacher)
• Outstanding Operational Employee: Cheyenne Cole (Special Education Instructional Assistant)
• Outstanding Leader: Brandy O'Bryant (Assistant Principal)
• Outstanding New Principal: Elizabeth Watson (Principal)

 

**If you have any questions about the process of FCPS Outstanding Staff Awards, please contact Ann Ohr at [email protected] or Caitlyn Reilly at [email protected] 

 

❄️ Preparing for Winter Weather

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

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

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

  Keep Your Child Warm During Outdoor Activities

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

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

 

Show Your Spirit, Mustangs!

We hope that you will join us in our 10 Days of Winter Cheer at McNair!  Let's see your spirit, Mustangs!  (A calendar was sent home last week in Thursday folders.)

.

 

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].

 

Winter Special Education and 504 Newsletter

The latest issue of the FCPS Special Education and 504 Newsletter is available online. Topics in this issue include:

• Community Resources for Families of Students with Disabilities
• Save the Date: 2025 Family Summit
• SEL Screener Results
• New Accessibility Resources
• Adapted Physical Education and Recreation Program
• Why Some Students with Disabilities Stay in FCPS Until Age 22
• VR Programs Supports Out-of-State Post Secondary Schools
• Executive Functioning Webinars
• Early Literacy Resources
• ESY and Assessment Webinar
• COVID-19 Compensatory Education: FCPS Service Delivery Options

⛄Student and Family Resources

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

School’s Closed, Learning Can Continue! 

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

ST Math Family Night

MIND Research is hosting family math week January 13 - January 17, 2025. During that time, students are encouraged to log onto the FCPS Family Math website to engage in math activities with their families at home that include stories with mathematical concepts connected to a variety of different math games from around the world. All activities are available in English and Spanish. 

To learn more about Family Math Nights, check out this video. We hope that all schools will help spread the word and work collaboratively to help us reach our goal of logging on for three million minutes as an FCPS community. 

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: 

Fall Snacks Sign-Up Form

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 December Newsletter

This month, Mrs.Janofsky and Mrs. Burg highlight how PMI is an analysis tool that leads students to consider various aspects of ideas, events, or activities from their own or others’ perspective. Check out the latest edition of the AAP December Newsletter.

  Full Time AAP Referrals

Referrals for Full Time AAP Screening are due no later than December 15th at 11:59 p.m. This is a firm deadline, and no exceptions will be made. Please refer to this AAP Checklist Link for required and optional documents as well as submission instructions.

 

Office Hours with Mrs. Burg

Mrs. Burg is hosting weekly virtual office hours on Zoom to answer any questions you have. Join her at the dates and times listed below.

Wednesday 12/11 5pm - 6pm

Friday, 12/11 9am – 10 am *change in time*

Use this Zoom Link to enter.

Please email Mrs. Burg ahead of time if you would like translation services.

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.

 

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, please contact our main office at 703-793-4800.

 

PTA Updates   Get Involved with the PTA!

Join the McNair PTA today! 

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

  CONGRATULATIONS!!

Congratulations to McNair Upper ES participants on their exceptional performance at the Virginia Science Olympiad (Division A)!

They garnered 76 medals across 38 events & 3 teams, achieving the highest number of wins among all participating schools.

  Chess Tournament

 

Pre-registration closes on Thursday, January 9, 2025.  The early pre-registration fee through Tuesday, January 7, 2025 is $40.00 per chess player. The late pre-registration fee for Wednesday, January 8, 2028 and Thursday, January 9, 2025 is $45.00. On-site registrations will close at 8:30 am on Saturday, January 11. The on-site registration fee is $50.00. 

Just a couple of reminders...

-No Email/Phone Registrations allowed.

-If you need a buy for the later rounds - please notify the PTA prior to the beginning of round 2.

-Doors open at 8:00 am for on-site registrations. On-site registration closes at 8:30 am. The first round starts at 9:00 am.

-There are three (3) sections:

* K-3 G/30,d5 (5 rounds)

* K-5 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)

*K-8 G/45,d5 (4 rounds)

-Participants must have a USCF ID - to register: https://secure2.uschess.org/webstore/member.php

-Pre-registrations (updated periodically)

-Cancellations are subject to a $5.00 per player handling fee.

-Participants should use the back/cafeteria doors - the front doors will not be open.

-Our chess tournaments are subject to Fairfax County Public School policies. -

-In case of inclement weather - please check www.fcps.edu.

Registration Link for the Chess Tournament:

https://tinyurl.com/3b7w4z4s

  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

 

Community Resources

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

 

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: 

https://chat.whatsapp.com/JZ4KRYb4mYh5N2Qt6NJOKu

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✨ 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. 

 

Special Education Resources For Families

Fairfax County Public Schools has the following resources available to help assist families of students with special needs. 

• The Office of Special Education Procedural Support helps staff, families, and students with the implementation of and compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended. 

• The Family Resource Center (FRC) offers free webinars, consultations, a lending library, and resources to help adults support the success of all students, including those with learning challenges, special needs, and disabilities. Sign up for the FRC newsletter. Contact the FRC at [email protected] or call 703-204-2941.

• Kathy Murphy, the assistant ombuds for special education, provides information and support to caregivers and students regarding special education and Section 504 services. Contact the Ombuds Office by submitting a question, calling 571-423-4014, or emailing [email protected]. 

Additionally, the Virginia Department of Education has updated the Virginia Family's Guide to Special Education. This state guide was developed to help those involved in special education including families, teachers, school administrators, advocates, and  students.

National Special Education Day

National Special Education Day is recognized each year on Dec. 2 and commemorates President Gerald Ford’s signing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975. We celebrate our teachers and staff who serve and support our students receiving special education services, as well as our families who are partners in the education and support of those students! 

Learn more about the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Christmas🎄

 A very Merry Christmas to those in our community who celebrate! Christmas is an annual holiday that commemorates the birth of Jesus of Nazareth, the person who stands at the heart of the Christian tradition. It is celebrated in many unique ways across the U.S. and the world, most commonly by the joyous giving of gifts. Learn more about Christmas.

Chanukah

Chanukah, an 8-day Festival of Lights, is a Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple and the miracle of a small quantity of oil that lit the Temple’s menorah for 8 days. This year, Chanukah begins at sundown on Wednesday, December 25. See the complete school year calendar.

Winter Break (Student Holiday)

As a reminder, winter break will be held Monday, December 23, to Friday, January 3. To help make sure you and your children have a restful break, we have asked that no homework be assigned during this time. Teachers may assign long-range assignments in the weeks ahead of the break, allowing students to practice time management skills, but no assignments will be due immediately following the break. We look forward to welcoming students back in the new year.Classes resume on Monday, Jan. 6, 2025. See the complete school year calendar.

FCPS News

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

• Course Selection for Middle and High School Students
• Join Our Teacher Team!
• Comprehensive Boundary Review Updates

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!

Twitter   Facebook   Instagram  

 

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. 

 

December 9-20: McNair's 10 Days of Winter Cheer Spirit Days! 

December 15: Window for AAP Referrals Closes for Grades 2-7

December 20: Winter Sing Along (Student Assembly)

December 23-January 3: Winter Break (No School For Students. The school building and office will be closed during this timeframe.)

December 25: Christmas Day

December 25: Chanukah Begins at Sundown

January 1: Happy New Year, Mustangs!

January 6: School Reopens at 8:35am

January 20: Dr. Martin Luther King's Birthday (Schools Closed)

January 15: PTA Meeting 6:30-7:30 PM at McNair Upper ES

February 6: "McNair Mustangs Love To Read" Family Literacy Night 4:30-6:00pm at McNair Elementary School (More information coming soon

February 24: 3 Hour Early Release Day, Dismissal will be 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.) 

 

 

2024-2025 Arrival and Dismissal

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

Dismissal begins at 3:30 pm. 

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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