11/5/24 News From the Nest: Family Edition

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements2 weeks 1 day ago

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اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1 

November 5, 2024

Attend Today!  Achieve Tomorrow!

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

Students absent 10% of the school year (or just two days per month) are considered chronically absent. They will have missed 30 hours of math instruction and 60 hours of reading and writing instruction.  This puts your child at a huge disadvantage in meeting academic and social/emotional targets.  

Please contact the school if your child is showing school refusal so that we can problem solve together!  We want and need our students in school!

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

Thanksgiving Lunch ~ November 21st

We are excited to be hosting a Thanksgiving Lunch again this year for our families on Thursday, November 21st! Last year we welcomed about 300 visitors! Fliers with an RSVP will be going home to families on Wednesday, Nov. 6th!

Elementary School Language Arts Grading Updates

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

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

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

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

Literacy Resources for Families Webpage

A new Literacy Resources for Families webpage has been published to the external web to provide families with information about how to support their children with developing literacy knowledge and skills at home. It provides valuable information about the reading and writing resources to be used at home, the VALLSS, Reading Plans, guidance for Parent Teacher Conferences, and training available through the Family Academy.

Native American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. It is also a time to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically and in the present, and the ways in which tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges. If your family would like to share about your Native American culture on our Morning News Show, please reach out to Heather Carroll at [email protected]

PTO 5K Fun Run!

Our annual Glen Forest 5k Fun Run is taking place on Saturday November 23. Registration from 10:00-10:45 with the race starting at 11:00am. There will be music, games, face painting, and food trucks! 

If you would like to volunteer at the race, please let any member of the PTO board know or email [email protected]. Help is greatly appreciated!!

Mark Your Calendars!

Wednesday, Nov. 6th - AAP Parent Information Night - 6:30pm in the cafe

Wednesday, Nov. 6th - PTO Restaurant Fundraiser - Jerusalem Mediterranean Restaurant - Purchases all day will benefit PTO

Monday, Nov. 11th - No School - Veterans Day  

Tuesday, November 12th - Report Cards Available in ParentVue

Wednesday, November 13th - Report Cards Sent Home

Monday, Nov. 18th - PTO Meeting 7:30pm via Zoom (link will be sent)

Wednesday, Nov. 20th - Family Food Market 5:30pm-6:30pm

Thursday, Nov. 2st - Families Invited to Thanksgiving Lunch! Flier coming home on 11/6

Saturday, Nov. 23rd - 5K Fun Run!  Race starts at 11:00

Understanding the Full-Time AAP (Advanced Academic Programs) Screening Process

At this meeting, Parents of 2nd-5th grade students will learn about Fairfax County’s AAP Full-Time Services Referral, Screening, and Identification Process. There will be an Arabic and Spanish translator available.

Wednesday, November 6, 2024
6:30-7:30 PM
In the Glen Forest Cafeteria

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K, 1st Grade and Special Education, [email protected]

Alexandra Bowman, Assistant Principal for 2nd and 3rd Grade, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web Twitter | Facebook

10/2/24 News From the Nest: Family Edition

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements1 month 2 weeks ago

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If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

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اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1 

October 2, 2024

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

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

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

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

3 Hour Early Release Monday, October 21st

This will be our second Early Release Monday. Dismissal begins at 1:05pm. 

  • If your child will be going home a different way than they did on Monday, September 16th, the first Early Release Monday, please let your child's teacher know.
  • Please do not call the front office after 12:00pm to make a change to your child's dismissal plan.

What is Your Child Learning this Year?

Instruction in Virginia's public schools is guided by the Standards of Learning (SOL). The standards describe the expectations for student learning, assessment, and achievement in grades K-12. Visit this link to learn more about the content that is being taught in your child's classroom! 

PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

The PTO has extended their membership drive: The class with the most sign-ups from each grade by Monday October 7th at 11:59pm will win a popsicle party! Membership is $25/family and helps support the PTO. Sign up today at https://www.ptaglenforest.org/become-a-member or bring cash to the front office.

Stay up-to-date with PTO news by visiting www.ptaglenforest.org or checking our social media:  Facebook:  Glen Forest Elementary School PTO  X (formerly Twitter)/Instagram: @glenforetspto

Kathleen Donovan, PTO President, 2024-2025 [email protected]

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

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

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

Mark Your Calendars!

Thursday, October 3rd - No School - Rosh Hashanah

Friday, October 4th - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

Tuesday, October 8th - PTO Restaurant Night - Five Guys 4:00pm-8:00pm

Thursday, October 10th - After School PTO Clubs 4:30pm-5:30pm

Monday, October 14th - No School for Students - Staff Development Day

Wednesday, October 16th - Family Food Market 5:30pm-6:30pm

Thursday, October 17th - Family Engagement Meeting - Topic: Zones of Regulations presented by our Behavior Wellness Team - 10:00am in the cafe and via Zoom (link will be sent)

Monday, October 21st - 3 Hour Early Release for Students (1:05pm dismissal)

Monday, October 21st - PTO Meeting 7:30pm-8:00pm via https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/92982945083

Wednesday, October 23rd - Understanding the Full-Time AAP Screening Process - all 2nd-5th grade parents invited - 6:30pm - GFES cafe

Thursday, October 31st - 2 Hour Early Release for all students

Friday, November 1st - No School (observance of Diwali & All Saints Day)

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

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

 

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

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K, 1st Grade and Special Education, [email protected]

Alexandra Bowman, Assistant Principal for 2nd and 3rd Grade, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web Twitter | Facebook

9/23/24 News From the Nest: Family Edition

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements1 month 3 weeks ago

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

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

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اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1 

September 23, 2024

September is Attendance Awareness Month.  Did you know that if your child misses 2 days of school each month, that he/she will miss out on 30 hours of math instruction and 60 hours of reading and writing instruction?

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

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

24-25 SIIP (School Innovation & Improvement Plan)

Glen Forest's SIIP is now posted on the school website and can be found at this link. The plan includes goals that focus on reading, math, science, and chronic absenteeism.  We look forward to partnering with you all to support student success! 

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

Message From the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

  • Our PTO membership drive is in full swing! The class with the most sign-ups by September 27th gets a popsicle party! You can become a member here

Stay up-to-date with PTO news by visiting www.ptaglenforest.org or checking our social media:  Facebook:  Glen Forest Elementary School PTO  X (formerly Twitter)/Instagram: @glenforetspto

Kathleen Donovan, PTO President, 2024-2025 [email protected]

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

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

Mark Your Calendars!

Tuesday, September 24th - AAP Parent (grades K - 5) Information Session - 6:30pm in cafe 

Thursday, September 26th - Family Engagement Meeting at 10:00am - in the cafe and via Zoom https://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/99279163694 

Thursday, September 26th - Fall PTO Clubs Begin - 4:30pm-5:30pm (Parents must pick up students)

Thursday, October 3rd - No School - Rosh Hashanah

Friday, October 4th - No School for Students - Teacher Workday

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Elementary Continuum of Services

Elementary Parent Information Meeting: Please join us on Tuesday, September 24, 2024 in the school cafeteria from 6:30-7:30pm for our Advanced Academics Program (AAP) Information Night. During this session we will share information about the AAP program and answer any questions you may have.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K, 1st Grade and Special Education, [email protected]

Alexandra Bowman, Assistant Principal for 2nd and 3rd Grade, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web Twitter | Facebook

9/11/24 News From the Nest: Family Edition

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements2 months 1 week ago

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

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1 

September 11, 2024

As you plan upcoming trips and other family events, please remember the importance of sending your child to school every day. Review the FCPS School Year Calendar and try to plan any time away during breaks from school. 

Children who show up for school regularly develop fundamental reading and math skills while building a habit of good attendance that will carry them into college and careers. Research shows that children who were chronically absent (missing 18 days or more) in kindergarten and first grade were far less likely to read proficiently at the end of third grade.

Learn how families can help form good attendance habits.

Picture Day, TOMORROW, Thursday, September 12th

A flier was sent home from Lifetouch about how to order pictures.  Money can be sent in on picture day with the envelope provided or pictures can be ordered online with the website and code that is on the flyer. SMILE!

Message From the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

  • A flier is coming home today about Fall Club Sign-Up, which begins next Wednesday, September 18th.
  • Don't forget to purchase your Glen Forest shirt or sweatshirt here, and support the PTO! You can buy your Spirit wear through 9/22.
  • Our PTO membership drive is in full swing! The class with the most sign-ups by September 27th gets a popsicle party! You can become a member here
  • Our first PTO meeting will be on Monday, September 16th at 7:30pm on zoom and is open to all. Join us to discuss upcoming events, hear updates from the principal, share ideas, and get involved.  Spanish and Arabic interpreters will be available. Please note, this is also an early release Monday: school will dismiss at 1:05pm

Stay up-to-date with PTO news by visiting www.ptaglenforest.org or checking our social media:  Facebook:  Glen Forest Elementary School PTO  X (formerly Twitter)/Instagram: @glenforetspto

Kathleen Donovan

PTO President, 2024-2025

[email protected]

Mark Your Calendars!

Early Release Monday, September 16th - 1:05pm dismissal 

1st PTO Meeting, Monday, September 16th - 7:30pm via Zoom (link above)

Back To School Night, Thursday, September 19th, K-2 from 6:00-7:00, 3rd-5th from 7:15-8:15

Advanced Academic Programs (AAP) Elementary Continuum of Services

  • Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is committed to challenging all students through talent development efforts and differentiated instruction to meet the needs of advanced learners.

FCPS offers a continuum of advanced academic services for all students in Grades K-12. The continuum of services approach recognizes unique student needs and focuses on matching services, not labeling students. Through the continuum, students have:

Multiple entry points for deeper learning opportunities in specific areas of need as they develop.
A cluster group of students with similar academic needs to continue growing in their learning.

Teachers, Advanced Academic Resource Teachers (AARTs), and school administrators work together to provide the following levels of service at the elementary level: 

Access to Rigor, Grades K-6
All students have opportunities to think critically, reason, and problem-solve. 
All teachers use critical and creative thinking strategies in their lessons.
Classroom teachers provide opportunities using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework a minimum of once per quarter.
Because Access to Rigor is for all FCPS students, there is not a screening process.

Subject-Specific Services, Grades K-6
Some students are strong in a specific subject area. Classroom teachers may adjust instruction for students in these area(s) by:
Providing different assignments and resources in those subjects,
Grouping students by their strengths, interests, and readiness, and
Providing additional challenges using materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework.
Student needs for Subject-Specific differentiation are re-evaluated each year at the local school.

Part-Time Services, Grades 3-6 
Some students have advanced academic needs in multiple subject areas in addition to specific subject differentiation. They need Part-Time AAP services. 
Students work with other students that have similar academic needs through weekly pull-out classes or weekly co-taught lessons with the AART and classroom teacher.
Teachers provide frequent opportunities to use materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, science, social studies, and/or mathematics.
Part-Time services continue through Grade 6. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

Full-Time Services, Grades 3-8
Some advanced learners need a Full-Time advanced academic program with differentiated instruction in all four core content areas (Language Arts, mathematics, social studies, and science). 
Students eligible for Full-Time AAP services are cluster grouped on a Full-Time basis and receive:
Full-Time use of materials from the AAP Curriculum Framework in Language Arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and
Curriculum that is differentiated through acceleration, depth, and complexity of content.
Full-Time services continue through Grade 8. Students do not need to be evaluated each year.

Screening for Advanced Academic Program Services
Multiple data points are reviewed holistically to determine eligibility for all FCPS advanced academic services. Committees consider student work from opportunities with AAP lessons, examples of student reasoning or gifted behaviors from class discussions and activities, progress reports, achievement and ability scores, and parent input. Committees consider whether students have access to a group of students with similar academic needs to support academic conversations and growth in the classroom. No pieces of the data are weighted in the holistic screening process.

Eligibility decisions for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP services are made by a committee at the local school, and screening is ongoing throughout the school year. To refer for Subject-Specific and Part-Time AAP services, submit the AAP School-Based Referral Form to the AART, Patricia Edwards at [email protected]
.
Eligibility decisions for Full-Time services are made by the countywide central selection committee.

Screening for Full-Time services occurs during specific screening cycles:  
Fall screening is available for students who are new to FCPS since January.
The fall screening referral window is from the first day of school - October 15.
Spring screening is available for any Grade 2-7 FCPS-enrolled student. 
The spring screening referral window is from the first day of school - December 15.

Please do not wait for test scores before submitting a referral for your student in Grades 2-7. Referrals submitted after the Full-Time services referral windows noted above will not be accepted.

Referral forms for all advanced academic program services are found at https://www.fcps.edu/node/38893.

For more information, please visit the AAP website at: https://www.fcps.edu/registration/advanced-academics-identification-and-placement/current-fcps-students.  

Ability Testing
FCPS uses ability testing as one consideration of the holistic screening process for advanced academic services. Test scores are not weighted or prioritized in the holistic screening process.  
All students in Grade 1 take the Naglieri Nonverbal Ability Test (NNAT).
All students in Grade 2 take the Cognitive Abilities Test (CogAT). 
NNAT and/or CogAT may be administered to students in Grades 3-6 who do not have an ability test score during the regularly scheduled testing windows.  

Parents or guardians may request a one-time retest of either the CogAT or the NNAT in grades 3-6. Requests must be made during the fall testing windows. Please contact the school testing coordinator Heather Carroll at [email protected] or the AART, Patricia Edwards at [email protected]
no later than September 15 to request the CogAT retest or October 15 for the NNAT retest.

Elementary Parent Information Meeting
A parent information meeting will be held at Glen Forest Elementary School on September 24, 2024 from 6:30 PM-7:30 PM in the Cafeteria. The AART will provide information about the continuum of AAP services, explain the screening processes, and answer questions about advanced academic services.

Young Scholars
The FCPS Young Scholars model seeks to identify and affirm, from an early age, students with high academic potential from groups historically underrepresented in advanced academic programming. The goal of the model is to eliminate barriers for Young Scholars’ access to and success in advanced academic opportunities in elementary, middle, and high school.

Twice-Exceptional (2e)
Some gifted students with advanced learning needs may also have a learning disability. Twice-exceptional (or “2e”) students need strengths-based instruction while receiving advanced programming. The FCPS continuum of AAP services provides multiple entry points to meet student needs while also supporting their learning challenges. FCPS has created a 2e handbook to help schools and families understand how to identify and serve 2e students. You can find these resources by going to www.fcps.edu and searching “2e.”

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K, 1st Grade and Special Education, [email protected]

Alexandra Bowman, Assistant Principal for 2nd and 3rd Grade, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web Twitter | Facebook

9/3/24 News From the Nest: Family Edition

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements2 months 2 weeks ago

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

If you need this message in another language, please visit this link: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

Si necesita este mensaje en otro idioma, visite el sitio web de nuestra escuela en este enlace: https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1

اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1 

September 3, 2024

Picture Day, Thursday, September 12th

Be on the lookout for a flyer in the Wednesday folder this week about Fall Picture Day, next Thursday, September 12th.  Money can be sent in on picture day with the envelope provided or pictures can be ordered online with the website and code that is on the flyer. SMILE!

Message From the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

  • Get ready for Fall After-School Clubs! A favorite Glen Forest activity is starting up again in just a few weeks. Clubs will be on Thursdays from 4:30-5:30pm, with the exception of the running club, which will meet on Thursday mornings before school. The fee to enroll your child in a club is $50 for members and $60 for non-members. Next week, your child will receive a club form in their Wednesday folder with instructions on how to sign up for clubs. The best way to secure a spot in your child's club of choice will be to sign up and pay online. There will also be a paper form. Clubs this fall will include: Kickball (grades K-2), Running (grades 1-5), Dance/Gymnastics (grades 1-3), Eagle Fun (grades 1-3: stories with crafts/STEM activites), Lego Robotics (grades 2-4), American Sign Language (grades 2-5), and Chess (grades 3-5). 
  • Don't forget to purchase your Glen Forest shirt or sweatshirt here, and support the PTO! You can buy your Spiritwear through 9/22.
  • Our PTO membership drive is in full swing! The class with the most sign-ups by September 27th gets a popsicle party! You can become a member here
  • Our first PTO meeting will be on Monday, September 16th at 7:30pm on zoom and is open to all. Join us to discuss upcoming events, hear updates from the principal, share ideas, and get involved.  Spanish and Arabic interpreters will be available. Please note, this is also an early release Monday: school will dismiss at 1:05pm

Stay up-to-date with PTO news by visiting www.ptaglenforest.org or checking our social media:  Facebook:  Glen Forest Elementary School PTO  X (formerly Twitter)/Instagram: @glenforetspto

Kathleen Donovan

PTO President, 2024-2025

[email protected]

Welcome Back Message From Ricardy Anderson

Please take a moment to listen to this welcome back message from our Mason District FCPS School Board Representative, Ricardy Anderson. She is an educator, parent, community volunteer, and former Army Reservist.  Dr. Anderson has over 23 years of experience in education serving as a teacher and principal in both elementary and middle schools. She also served as a central office administrator in the position of director of teaching and learning.

 

In Need of TPAC Representative!

The Title I Parent Advisory Committee is a committee of parent representation from every Title I School. The committee meets six times throughout the year. Learn more about TPAC here.

Below are the dates for the general session meetings. They will be hybrid so we invite representatives to attend virtually or in-person (Gatehouse).

TPAC General Session Dates - 7-8:30 pm

Tuesday, October 22nd
Tuesday, December 3rd
Tuesday, February 11th
Tuesday, March 18th
Tuesday, April 22nd
Tuesday, May 20th

Please contact our Administrative Assistant, Karla Mandujano at [email protected] if you are interested.  Thank you!

Mark Your Calendars!

Thursday, September 5th - PTO Fundraising Night at Sweet Frog - 4:00pm-8:00pm 

PTO Welcome Back Picnic, Friday, September 6th, 5:30pm-7:00pm on the field (rain date is Sept. 12th)

Early Release Monday, September 16th - 1:05pm dismissal 

1st PTO Meeting, Monday, September 16th - 7:30pm via Zoom

Back To School Night, Thursday, September 19th, K-2 from 6:00-7:00, 3rd-5th from 7:15-8:15

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K, 1st Grade and Special Education, [email protected]

Alexandra Bowman, Assistant Principal for 2nd and 3rd Grade, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

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Message From the PTO (Parent Teacher Organization)

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements2 months 3 weeks ago

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اذا كننتم بحاجة ان تستلموا هذه الرسالة بلغة اخرى  فنرجوا زيارة موقع ا مدرستنا  على هذا الرابط.                  

https://glenforestes.fcps.edu/aggregator/sources/1  

Hello from your PTO!

The Glen Forest Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) would like to congratulate you on a full week underway for the 2024-2025 school year! We hope that your child is beginning to settle into the school routine. In this e-mail, you can learn what the PTO is and does, how you can join (and what it means to join), when meetings will be held and what some of our plans for the year include.  I am stepping into the role of President after serving as Vice President for two years, and I am truly looking forward to another great year ahead with many exciting events and opportunities to get involved.  I am grateful for the sense of community that has come with my experience as part of the Glen Forest PTO and as a parent entering my children's 4th year as students. 

We hope to see you at our virtual (zoom) meetings on the third Monday of the monthhttps://myfcpsk12.zoom.us/j/92982945083.

What is a Parent Teacher Organization (PTO)?: A PTO is a community of parents, teachers, administration, and staff who work together to support Glen Forest Elementary students and staff.  Our meetings are open to parents/guardians- both members and non-members- and all teachers and staff.  Joining the PTO is an opportunity to meet other members of the Glen Forest Elementary community, find out what our school needs, and help meet those needs.

What does the Glen Forest PTO do?: Members meet monthly to discuss the needs of the school.  In order to meet those needs, we raise money through membership, after school clubs, spirit wear, and special events.  Some of our events include the Fall Picnic and Bingo Night.  The PTO uses the money we raise to pay for student field trips, teachers supplies, equipment requested by the school and teacher and student appreciation activities.  The money we raise goes directly back into Glen Forest Elementary School.

How can you join the PTO?:  You can return the blue PTO sign up form that came home in your student's folder, or sign up online on our website at www.ptaglenforest.org. Our website is also a great resource for current information! Currently, we are running a membership drive: the class with most membership sign-ups by Friday, September 27th will receive a popsicle party!  When you join the PTO, you can help in whatever way works for your schedule.  We need people to help with set up/take down at International Night and Bingo, we need help handing out supplies and items we purchase, we need help reaching out to the community to collect the items we need, we need help with clubs and sign-ups, and supporting our teachers, but mostly we need your ideas on how to help our school!

How can I get a school shirt for my child (or myself)?: Our SpiritWear fundraising campaign is now live! Please visit https://www.customink.com/fundraising/gfesptofall2024spiritwear to purchase a tee shirt, long-sleeved tee, sweatshirt, or hoodie! We have new designs and styles this year, and can't wait to see you rocking your Eagle pride! 

When do we meet?:   Meetings this year are virtual. We will meet on Zoom on the third Monday of the month (except January, February and March, which will be on the 2nd Monday of the month).  All meetings will be from 7:30-8:00pm, and Spanish and Arabic translation will be available. The dates are:

Sept 16th

Oct 21st

Nov 18th

Dec 16th

Jan 13th

Feb 10th

March 10th

April 21st

May 19th (final meeting--election of officers)

Attached is a calendar of our events planned so far this year! Please take part in our SpiritWear fundraising campaign at  https://www.customink.com/fundraising/gfesptofall2024spiritwear,. We hope to see you at Sweet Frog on September 5th, and at the Welcome Back Picnic on September 6th! Please visit our website www.ptaglenforest.org or check us out on social media for current information-  Facebook:  Glen Forest Elementary School PTO  X (formerly Twitter)/Instagram: @glenforetspto

 

Thank you Eagles!

Kathleen Donovan

PTO President, 2024-2025

[email protected]

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

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News From the Nest: Family Edition 8/25/24

Glen Forest ES News and Announcements2 months 3 weeks ago

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8/25/24

Greetings Glen Forest Families,

I'm thrilled to let you know that the start of this school year has been nothing short of fantastic. The first week has been filled with engaging lessons, new friendships, and a sense of enthusiasm that's truly contagious.  As we move forward, we will work diligently to maintain this positive momentum and continue striving for excellence in both academic and social/emotional learning.  I'm excited about the learning adventures that lie ahead and can't wait to share more updates with you as the year progresses.

Thank you for sharing your children with us.  Glen Forest is a very special place and our families are one of the biggest reasons.    

Attending School is Critical to Your Child's Success: The beginning of the school year is the best time to develop strong attendance habits! Students who attend school regularly are more likely to perform well in reading and math, develop strong social and emotional skills, and graduate from high school on time. Help prepare your child for future success.

Last school year, 13% of our students were absent for 10% or more of the school year.  Being absent for 10% of the school year means that the student is chronically absent.  Our goal this school year is that 9% or less of students will be chronically absent.  Working together, we can improve school attendance!  If your child is refusing school, please contact your grade level's assistant principal so that we can work with your child.  

As always, keep your child home if he/she is sick with a fever, vomiting, or diarrhea.  

Mark Your Calendars

No School on Friday, August 30th and Monday, September 2nd in observance of Labor Day

PTO Welcome Back Picnic, Friday, September 6th, 5:30pm-7:00pm

Back To School Night, Thursday, September 19th, K-2 from 6:00-7:00, 3rd-5th from 7:15-8:15

Parents, We Need Your Help: In order to protect teaching and learning, please remind your students to leave toys, soda & "Prime" drinks, and candy at home.  A small sweet treat in the lunchbox is okay!

If your child brings a cell phone when he/she leaves the house, it must remain in the backpack for the entirety of the school day, including while riding the bus.   

Our Commitment to Excellence, Equity, and Opportunity for Each and Every Student

As we begin a new school year, Superintendent Dr. Michelle Reid reminds us of the goals of FCPS’ 2023-30 Strategic Plan, which guides us in delivering excellence, equity, and opportunity for each and every one of our students. Watch Dr. Reid’s message.

Safety Drills During the School Year

Keeping students and staff safe is a priority for FCPS. Each school has an emergency preparedness plan to respond to incidents such as fires and tornadoes. Schools are required by state law to practice emergency drills, including lockdown drills, each year. Schools are also required to notify parents and guardians at least 24 hours before a school conducts a lockdown drill. However, schools are not required to give the specific date and time of the drill in advance. 

The first lockdown drill of the school year must take place within the first 20 days of school. Preschool and kindergarten students are exempt from practicing the first lockdown drill. 

Your child may come home and talk about their experience during the drill. We encourage you to talk with your child about the importance of being prepared for emergencies. Please review these frequently asked questions to support your students before and after school lockdown drills.Click to edit this placeholder text.

Glen Forest ES Administrative Team

Pictured from left to right:

Jessica Green, Assistant Principal for Pre-K, 1st Grade and Special Education, [email protected]

Alexandra Bowman, Assistant Principal for 2nd and 3rd Grade, [email protected]

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Principal, [email protected]

Chris Musgnug, Assistant Principal for Kindergarten, 4th Grade, and 5th Grade, [email protected]

 

If you have any comments, concerns, questions, or compliments, please email me at [email protected].  Thank you for sharing your children with us and for your continued partnership in their education.  

From Many, We are ONE!  Team Glen Forest!  #GFeaglessoar

Warmly, 

Dee Dee Herndon-Wilson, Your Proud Principal

5829 Glen Forest Drive, Falls Church, VA 22041 |  Phone: 703.578.8000

Attendance: Submit Online or Call 703.578.8019 

Web Twitter | Facebook

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